By Kayla Tucker – Managing Editor
An open seat on the Grand Rapids Community College Board of Trustees is expected to be filled at a special meeting Oct. 5.
The term, once held by Dr. Richard Ryskamp, who died of cancer Sept. 8, expires Dec. 2016. Interviews were held Monday and scheduled for Wednesday for the 12 community applicants and were open to the public. Bert Bleke, chairman of the board, said the board has not collectively come up with specific traits they are looking for in the new trustee.
“What we are trying to do is, individually and then as a group, to listen to all the candidates and then together try to pick out an individual who we think is going to be a good fit for the board and can bring the most to the board of trustees for the future of the school,” Bleke said. “We’re hoping to get somebody long term that would run again,” said Misty McClure-Anderson, executive assistant to the president and board liaison.
The board is required to appoint a new trustee within 30 days of a seat opening.
Bleke said the board is looking for someone who is dedicated to the vision and mission of GRCC.
Ryskamp was elected in 2009 as a “critic” to the board who was known for his outspoken opinions.
“He really was a great addition to our board, even though a lot of times he didn’t agree on everything,” Anderson said. “He made them think and talk.”
A special meeting will be held to announce the new trustee at noon Monday Oct. 5 in the board chambers on the 5th floor of the Main Building.
