Schroeder, Larson considered for emeritus distinction

The governing board of the Maricopa County Community College District will review two Chandler-Gilbert Community College employees for emeritus distinction. Recently retired education faculty member Brenda Larson and provost John Schroeder will be considered at the Oct. 22 meeting.

Vice President of Academic Affairs William Guerriero nominated Larson for the honor which allows them to retain their title after retirement. The nomination states, “Brenda Larson has been an integral part of CGCC’s growth and expansion since its inception as a college. Originally hired to reach Office Automation Systems, Business-Personal Computers, and Computer Information Systems, Brenda modeled the way for faculty professional growth by earning two master’s degrees and a doctoral degree.

“She helped pioneer a business and teacher education learning community at CGCC’s Williams Campus and was instrumental in launching the college’s successful teacher education curriculum. Throughout her more than 26 years of service to CGCC and the district, Brenda remained active in a wide range of college and community activities. she served on countless college committees and advisory boards and maintained partnerships with K-12 and higher education partners, including the colleges of education at Arizona State University and Northern Arizona University.

“During her last year of service she was chair of the Social and Behavioral Sciences Division. Brenda was known for her impeccable organization and presentation of course materials and served as an exemplar for thousands of future teachers.”

College President Linda Lujan submitted the nomination for Schroeder. “John first came to Chandler-Gilbert Community College in 1990 as an aviation maintenance technology faculty member and was instrumental in providing current, relevant curriculum and training to countless aviation graduates who now serve our Valley’s aviation and aerospace industry.

“In 1995, John accepted an opportunity to be involved in business process design and technology planning and support at the Maricopa Community Colleges District Office where he served for eight years as director of Strategic Information Technologies.

“In 2003, John returned to CGCC as the provost and chief operating officer for the Williams Campus at the former Williams Field Air Base in Mesa. In that final role, John left an indelible mark on the college and its communities as he worked to keep the rich history of Williams Field alive while leading the transformation of CGCC’s portion of the base into a thriving and vibrant campus.

“John not only oversaw the development of every CGCC building on the site but brokered partnerships and relationship among other entities, including the federal government; the cities and towns of Mesa, Gilbert, Queen Creek and Phoenix; ASU Polytechnic; East Valley Institute of Technology; and countless business and industry partners. In this cabinet-level leadership role, John contributed in countless ways to the college planning and development, governance and educational endeavors at all its locations.”