President Search
Welcome to the DMACC President Search 2025. As we begin the important task of identifying the next leader of our college, we are dedicated to conducting a thorough and transparent selection process. Our goal is to ensure that the process reflects the highest standards of integrity, professionalism, and accountability. We are seeking a leader who will advance our mission, support student success, and strengthen our commitment to academic excellence. Throughout this process, we will provide regular updates and opportunities for input across the college and the community to ensure an inclusive search experience.
Reminder - Presidential Survey Closes May 27
A reminder that the Presidential Characteristic survey is open through next Tuesday, May 27. More than 50 people have filled out the survey so far; don’t miss this opportunity to make your voice heard.
Your Voice Matters
We believe that every stakeholder – students, faculty, staff, alumni, and community members – has a vital role to play in shaping the future leadership of our college. That’s why we are actively seeking your help in defining the qualities and experience we should look for in our next President. Please let us know your thoughts about the two questions below:
- What personal and professional characteristics should the new President at DMACC possess?
- What should be the primary focus areas of the new President for moving the College forward?
*Survey closes May 27
Presidential Search Committee Nominations
The search committee is committed to ensuring the integrity of the search process and finding the best possible candidate to be DMACC’s next president. The committee will recommend the most qualified and strongest candidates to the Board of Directors, which will ultimately appoint the next president. The search committee will:
- review the candidate pool
- conduct semi-finalist interviews
- recommend candidates to move forward for the final interviews with the Board
The committee size has yet to be determined, but will be balanced with members coming from all stakeholders in the DMACC community. If you would like to nominate a faculty, staff, or community member to be a part of the search committee, email Brooke Stowe at bastowe@dmacc.edu by Monday September 1st. Participants on the search committee must be available all day on October 2 – 3, 2025.
Thank You!
Thank you for your participation in the listening forums that took place on May 6 and 7. More than 100 people were able to participate.
In-Person Forums
A series of in-person forums for community stakeholders were held across DMACC campuses on May 6 and 7. Members of our community were welcomed to attend at any campus location that was convenient for them. These forums were separate from the forums scheduled for DMACC faculty and staff. This input will help guide the development of the DMACC Presidential Search Profile.
Tuesday, May 6, 2025
| Time | Campus | Address | Building/Room |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7:30 - 8:30 a.m. | Newton | 600 N 2nd Ave W, Newton | Room 118 |
| 11:30 - 12:30 p.m. |
Urban (including West & Southridge locations) |
1100 7th Street, Des Moines | Building 1, Room 141/142 |
| 4:30 - 5:30 p.m. | Ankeny | 2006 S. Ankeny Blvd, Ankeny | Building 5, Room 1240 A, B, I, & J |
Wednesday, May 7, 2025
| Time | Campus | Address | Building/Room |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7:30 - 8:30 a.m. | Boone | 1125 Hancock Dr. Boone | Room 200 |
| 11:30 - 12:30 p.m. | Carroll | 906 N Grant Rd, Carroll | Room 180 |
Virtual Forum
In addition to the in-person sessions, a virtual Teams meeting was held on May 7 from
3:00 – 4:00 p.m. to provide another opportunity for engagement.
- Be Present & Engaged. Your participation is crucial. Engage directly with the candidates to understand
their leadership philosophies and visions for DMACC.
- Ask Thoughtful Questions. Focus on topics that assess the candidates' leadership styles, strategic thinking,
and alignment with DMACC's mission and values.
- Keep Questions Brief & Relevant. To allow ample time for all voices, please be concise and stay on topic.
- Maintain a Positive & Professional Atmosphere. Foster a welcoming and collaborative environment, reflecting the college's professional
standards.
- Provide Feedback. After each forum, complete the Candidate Feedback Form to share your insights with the Board of Trustees.
Des Moines Area Community College President Search Timeline
- May-June - Online and in person meeting with all stakeholders.
- May 12 - Board updates President Job Description.
- June 16 - Board to receive report of in person meetings and online survey.
- July 15 - National search and advertising begins.
- September 1 - Applications due.
- September 1-15 - Review of applications by screening committee of 3 nationally known community college
leaders (Steve Schulz, Liang Che Wee, Kristie Fisher).
- September 15 - Selection of a search committee to interview 6-10 candidates for Teams interviews.
- October 2-3 - Teams interviews with the search committee.
- October 20-23 - On campus interviews.
- TBD - Board meeting to select new President.
Search Consultant
Larry Ebbers, PhD., has spent his career shaping the future of higher education. In addition to a 50-year tenure at Iowa State University, Ebbers is known for founding key programs like the Leader Institute for a New Century (LINC), and the Community College Leadership Initiative Consortium (CLIC), both which have prepared countless community college administrators for leadership roles. His expertise and his dedication has made a significant impact nationwide.
Stay Informed
Throughout the search process, we’ll provide regular updates on our progress and opportunities for engagement. Check this page often for the latest information and key dates.
Together, let’s find a leader who will uphold DMACC’s Mission and Values, and foster an environment where everyone can thrive.
Thank you for being a part of this important process. You’ll help shape the future of our college.
For questions or additional information, please contact:
Dr. Larry Ebbers, Search Consultant
lebbers@iastate.edu
515-290-9854