Lorenson announces retirement

IRONWOOD - Gogebic Community College President James Lorenson announced his intention to retire Thursday.

Lorenson stated in a letter, "After careful consideration, I have determined that it is time I step down from the Presidency of Gogebic Community College."

Lorenson has served as the President of the College since 2007 and has been employed with GCC for 31 years in various administrative positions.

Accomplishments during Lorenson's tenure include fiscal responsibility and clean audit opinions.

Lorenson was influential in establishing a new college brand identity, stabilizing enrollment, new instructional programs, a new advising process and restructuring the course schedule to better accommodate student needs.

According to a press release from the school, Lorenson expanded new partnerships with the Michigan Department of Natural Resources and regional health care systems. He additionally spearheaded infrastructure improvements, including the recent renovation of the Kleimola Technical Center, technology upgrades and strengthening campus safety.

The college also developed off-campus programs and took over running the Porcupine Mountains downhill ski hill during Lorenson's tenure.

"Jim has been a leader in advocacy for rural community colleges on the state and national level. He has extensive legislative relationships which has greatly assisted Gogebic Community College in securing state appropriations and funding for capital outlay projects. Under his leadership, GCC has become a leader in the state and is nationally recognized as a top community college," college board chair John Lupino said.

"We wish him the very best in his future endeavors and sincerely thank him for his dedicated service to Gogebic Community College," Lupino added.