GRCC President Rich Rutkowski to retire next June

September 18, 2009 2:15 pm
Green River Community College President Richard A. Rutkowski intends to retire in June. He began his career at GRCC in 1974 as dean of business affairs before becoming the school's third president in 1983. 'It has truly been an honor for me to work at Green River Community College for over 35 years
Green River Community College President Richard A. Rutkowski intends to retire in June. He began his career at GRCC in 1974 as dean of business affairs before becoming the school's third president in 1983. 'It has truly been an honor for me to work at Green River Community College for over 35 years

Green River Community College President Richard A. Rutkowski announced his intention to retire effective June 30, 2010 at the Sept. 17 regular meeting of the Board of Trustees.

Rutkowski began his career at Green River in 1974 as dean of business affairs. In 1983, Rutkowski was named as the third president of GRCC, replacing Jim Chadbourne.

“It has truly been an honor for me to work at Green River Community College for over 35 years,” Rutkowski told the Board. “For that privilege, I thank you sincerely.”

Board Chairman Larry Brown praised Rutkowski for the stability and guidance he has provided GRCC over the years.

“Your leadership has created this wonderful culture at Green River Community College,” Brown said.

Under Rutkowski, Green River has expanded both in the community and internationally. In addition to its main campus in Auburn, GRCC now has branch campuses in Kent and Enumclaw. The college serves more than 10,000 students each quarter, with record enrollments expected this fall quarter. It is one of the leading community colleges in the country at attracting and educating international students, who bring additional cultural and learning opportunities to local students.

Rutkowski has also presided over an era of unprecedented building improvements at Green River including recent additions of a state-of-the-art science building and technology center. Green River is one of only a handful of community colleges in the Northwest to have on-campus apartments for students.

Brown said that hiring a new president is the most important job that trustees have.

The Board has scheduled a special meeting for Monday, Oct. 12 to begin the search process, which is expected to take several months.

Rutkowski told the Board, “I have great confidence that you will be able to design the very best process for my replacement.”

In a message sent to faculty and staff shortly after his announcement, Rutkowski said he is looking forward to working with the campus on ways to improve the lives of students during his final year as president.