Speaking from similar experiences not long ago, the board of Lake Michigan College is in a tough position.

Unlike their peers on private boards where the public knows little, a public board exposes decisions and actions to public scrutiny that requires a balance between rights. On one hand, the public has a right to know, and on the other, we all have rights with regard to employment relationships. Certain rights are protected, and in the scope of public employment, more is open to question by observers, and often without full knowledge of facts.

I think the work by the LMC board has been commendable, and it’s not an easy position.

At the beginning of the year a new leader was hired, and the board had concluded what it thought was a lengthy due diligence, interview and hiring process. This process is not easy, requires a great deal of time, and the members of the board now face that process again. I have no doubt they will take it as serious as they did the first time, but it’s a daunting task. That Dr. Harrison has agreed to “unretire” is a great benefit to the board and community, giving additional time to the board to find the right person and allow a regrouping period.

My thanks to the members of the board, elected to act in the interests of the stakeholders of the college. It’s a difficult position, and while it’s easy to offer Monday-morning-quarterback decisions, it’s something they don’t get to walk away from, but that they have to relive and own in fulfilling their duty.

I’m not privy to any information beyond what has been published in the papers, but I know there is so much more to the story that is best left unsaid as the college works to fulfill its mission. All I can do is say thank you for the service.

 

Jon Martin

Niles