For Immediate Release: January 9, 2025
Public Relations Office
Dawnie Slabaugh
Phone: (530) 938-5373
Email: slabaugh@siskiyous.edu
Weed /COS – The College of the Siskiyous is pleased to announce the finalists for the position of Vice President of Administrative Services (VPAS). These candidates, each with impressive backgrounds in higher education, finance, and administration, have been selected to participate in a final round of interviews with key campus constituencies. The interviews will be accompanied by a tour of the campus and a public forum. All members of the community are invited to attend these public forums, either in person at the Weed Campus or virtually via Zoom.
The forums will be held in the Distance Learning Center, Room 3 (Building 10) on the Weed Campus. Individuals wishing to attend remotely can join the forum via Zoom. The public forums will be held on the following schedule:
Each of the candidates brings a wealth of experience, leadership, and a passion for advancing the mission of higher education. The campus community is encouraged to attend and engage with the finalists to help inform the decision-making process for this important leadership role.
Sales Representative, Victory Chevrolet, North Carolina
Public Forum: Tuesday, January 21 – 11:45 am to 12:30 pm
John Ives is a seasoned higher education and business administration professional with over 25 years of experience. Throughout his career, John has prioritized student success and financial stewardship, contributing to institutional effectiveness at multiple colleges and universities. His leadership roles have included Chief Financial Officer, Vice President of Administrative Services, and District Chief Business Officer at Evergreen Valley College, Feather River College, and other institutions. With expertise in budget development, financial operations, facilities management, accreditation, and strategic planning, John has successfully guided institutions toward fiscal sustainability. He holds an M.B.A. from Canisius University and has nearly completed his Ed.D. in Higher Education Leadership from UNC Charlotte.
Director of Fiscal Services, College of the Siskiyous
Public Forum: Wednesday, January 22 – 9:00 to 9:45 am
Melissa Ericsson is a dedicated education professional with over 20 years of experience in both educational and organizational leadership. A native of Siskiyou County and a proud graduate of College of the Siskiyous, Melissa is deeply connected to the local community. Currently serving as the Director of Fiscal Services at the College of the Siskiyous, she has proven success in managing financial strategies that support the institution's mission. Melissa holds a Master of Science in School Business Leadership from Wilkes University and a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Southern Oregon University. She is also pursuing doctoral coursework in Higher Education Organizational Leadership at Liberty University. Her broad experience includes roles as a teacher, school board member, and Chief Business Official, along with certification as a Chief Business Official by the California Association of School Business Officials (CASBO).
Director of Planning, Assessment, and Research, College of the Siskiyous
Public Forum: Wednesday, January 22 – 2:30 to 3:15 pm
JT Tarantino brings over a decade of experience in higher education, following a successful career in the semiconductor industry as an electronic engineer. After earning his MBA from the University of Portland, JT transitioned to higher education and now serves as the Director of Planning, Assessment, and Research at College of the Siskiyous. He is currently pursuing an Ed.D. in Organizational Leadership. Passionate about leveraging data to enhance student success, JT works closely with faculty and staff to drive institutional improvement. Outside of his professional work, he enjoys exploring Siskiyou County, gardening, and engaging in home improvement projects.
Former Director of Financial & Fiscal Services, Antelope Valley College
Public Forum: Thursday, January 23 – 9:00 to 9:45 am
Sarah Johnston is an accomplished financial leader with nearly two decades of experience in both higher education and healthcare sectors. A licensed CPA in California and Texas, Sarah's career has spanned a wide range of roles, including Chief Business Official and Controller at several community colleges, including Antelope Valley College and Santa Barbara City College. Sarah’s leadership has been instrumental in managing complex budgets and driving operational improvements. She is also a passionate advocate for equity and community service, contributing to various causes including animal welfare, political finance, and civic engagement. Sarah holds bachelor’s degrees in Accounting and Finance and has served in leadership roles during both periods of growth and crisis, including the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Executive Vice President of Instruction, Innovation, and Student Success, Victor Valley College
Public Forum: Thursday, January 23 – 2:30 to 3:15 pm
Dr. Todd Scott is an experienced higher education leader with over 13 years in executive roles, specializing in student success, equity, and institutional development. As the Executive Vice President of Instruction, Innovation, and Student Success at Victor Valley College, Dr. Scott has led initiatives to improve student outcomes and operational efficiency. His prior experience includes serving as Vice President of Instruction and Dean of Public Safety and Industrial Technology at Victor Valley College. Dr. Scott holds a Ph.D. in Human Services and a Master of Public Administration. Having previously served as Vice President of Instruction at College of the Siskiyous, Dr. Scott is eager to return to the region, where he has strong ties and a deep understanding of the community’s educational needs.
For further information about the hiring practice or about the candidate interviews, contact the Office of Human Resources at College of the Siskiyous by emailing humanresources@siskiyous.edu or call (530) 938-5373. The College of the Siskiyous can also be reached by calling toll-free (888) 397-4339.
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