Collin College Board of Trustees appointed Dr. Colleen Altaffer Smith as the interim district president following the resignation of long-time CEO Cary A. Israel.
Dr. Smith is a seasoned higher education professional with more than 30 years in teaching and administration. She has served as the college’s district senior vice president of academic affairs and student development since 2010 and previously served as president of Cisco College. Her extensive experience also includes service as a vice president of instruction, an associate dean, a divisional chair and a professor.
“Dr. Smith is the right person to step in and provide leadership continuity for the district. She has a wealth of knowledge, and we know she can ensure that our objectives move forward through the transition,” said Mac Hendricks, who chairs the Collin College Board of Trustees.
The Board of Trustees will conduct a national search for the next district president of Collin College, and the position is expected to attract exceptional candidates because of the college’s fiscal health, reputation as a national award winner and location in a vibrant community. The college has maintained or lowered the tax rate for 15 consecutive years, and tuition is the lowest in the state of Texas. Collin College’s enrollment grew more than 50 percent during President Israel’s tenure.
Dr. Smith holds a Ph.D. from Texas Woman’s University as well as both a Master of Science degree and a Bachelor of Science degree from Texas A&M University-Commerce. She chairs accreditation committees for the Southern Association of College and Schools Commission on Colleges, co-chairs the statewide Undergraduate Education Advisory Committee for the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, serves as secretary of the McKinney Community Development Corporation and just completed a term as chair of the North Texas Community College Consortium board of directors.
She will officially assume the role on November 10.
