When Leadership Fails, the Board Must Act

To BOT, 

When you select a president, as you did, you likely feel ownership in that decision and want that individual to succeed. I expect you are likely hesitant to change your mind. Unfortunately, that is not always what happens. Leaders sometimes fail to perform as one hopes, and it becomes the responsibility of the Board to recognize when the institution is being harmed rather than strengthened.

Under President Harrison’s leadership, the college is experiencing excessively high turnover, persistent fiscal concerns, administrative overload, and reductions to student classes. He has also failed in his supervisory responsibilities, permitting failed performance within key areas of administration—such as the Omak Dean—without consequence. This lack of oversight has further deepened the instability across the institution.

You have given this president more than enough time and opportunity to succeed. Instead, accreditation is now at risk, the long-term viability of the college is in question, and community trust in the administration has deteriorated sharply. These are not minor administrative missteps—they are fundamental failures that jeopardize the future of Wenatchee Valley College and the students it serves.

I hope you will take your responsibilities seriously and act decisively. The president should be removed, and a new leader appointed who can restore stability, rebuild trust, and guide the institution forward with competence rather than chaos. Wenatchee Valley College deserves leadership that prioritizes students, staff, and the community.

The Board has the authority, and now the obligation, to protect this institution. I respectfully ask that you exercise that duty without delay.

Community Member