I am writing this letter to express my support of Tom Buszek and Elaine Foster in their bid for seats on the Southwestern Michigan College Board of Trustees.  I was fortunate to have the opportunity to work with both Tom and Elaine during my time as vice president at SMC.  During that time I found them both to be knowledgeable, dedicated and reliable professionals who have dedicated their careers to the success of our community college students. 

I retired from SMC in 2013 and moved out of state so I cannot speak to any specifics about the current situation at the college.  However, I am still involved in community college education as a faculty member and as a consultant and I am very aware of the many challenges facing community colleges today.  In Michigan and nationally, community college enrollments are declining, as is their funding.  Accountability in all aspects of operations is now mandated by federal and state government including accountability around the success of their students. 

In this challenging and dynamic environment, community college leaders must be knowledgeable, innovative and transparent.  College faculty and staff must be empowered to help find creative solutions for the many challenges that we are currently facing. 

It is my strong belief that both Tom Buszek and Elaine Foster have these qualities and understand the need to empower and support faculty and staff to find solutions that provide for the needs of the students and of the college.   I would strongly encourage you to vote for Tom and Elaine for the Southwestern Michigan College Board of Trustees.

DIANE K. CHADDOCK , Ed.D.

Apache Junction, Arizona