After 35 years in various roles at St. Clair College, retiring President Patti France is now retired President Emeritus Patti France.
The College's Board of Governors presented her with a scroll bestowing that title upon her during her last meeting as the school's head administrator on May 28 (pictured above).
France stepped down on May 31, 2024, spending the past nine years as its President.
From the Latin word "emereri", used to designate a soldier who has completed a distinguished term of duty, "emeritus" is an honorary title that is specially – and only very occasionally – granted to recognize a retiree who has provided long and exemplary service to an institution.
During the celebratory conclusion of the May 28 meeting, the Board also announced the new Welcome Centre of the College would be named in France's honour. It’s a fitting gesture, given that its construction was her chief architectural goal when she was named as the school's sixth President in 2015.
When the new, 16,000-square-foot extension at the front of the college's main building is open in July, it will achieve France's long-standing goal of centralizing the half-dozen most commonly used student services – now scattered all over the campus – in a single, convenient, "one-stop-shop" location.
The celebration of Dr. France’s work continued through the week, when on her last day of work, hundreds attended an open house to wish her well in retirement.
Interim President Michael Silvaggi officially began his presidency on June 1.
Dr. France, a Computer Programming graduate, has made significant contributions to St. Clair College over the years, her journey spanning various departments and roles, from support staff to administration, and finally, to senior administration.
During her tenure, she embodied the institution's motto of "Excellence In All We Do," and her leadership contributed to the College's quality, innovations, and success.
Dr. France boasts many notable accomplishments during her tenure as President, including:
- Advancing Student Success: Dr. France prioritized student success by implementing programs and initiatives that enhanced learning experiences. She worked to create an inclusive and supportive environment for students, ensuring they had the resources needed to thrive academically.
- Community Engagement: Dr. France actively engaged with the local community, forging partnerships with businesses, organizations, and government. These collaborations led to opportunities for students, such as internships, co-op placements, and real-world projects.
- Infrastructure and Facilities: Under her leadership, St. Clair College saw significant improvements in its infrastructure. New buildings, modernized classrooms, and state-of-the-art facilities were developed to enhance the learning environment.
- Applied Research and Innovation: Dr. France championed applied research initiatives, encouraging faculty and students to explore innovative solutions to real-world problems, helping bridge the gap between academia and industry.
- Internationalization: St. Clair College expanded its global reach during Dr. France's tenure. She built international partnerships, study abroad programs, and cultural exchanges, enriching the educational experience for students from diverse backgrounds.
- Student Services and Support: Dr. France emphasized comprehensive student services, including mental health support, career counseling, and accessibility services. Her commitment to student well-being contributed to a positive campus atmosphere.
- Strategic Planning and Vision: Dr. France played a key role in shaping the college's strategic direction. Her vision emphasized growth, excellence, and adaptability, ensuring St. Clair College remained relevant in a rapidly changing educational landscape.
Overall, Dr. France's legacy is one of dedication, innovation, and a deep commitment to the success of students and the institution. Her impact will continue to resonate within the St. Clair College community for years to come.
