Doris Helmich has been named the interim president of Central Arizona College.
Helmich will serve as interim president until a new president can be found. She replaces Dennis Jenkins, who after 40 years at CAC and four years as president announced his retirement on Nov. 1. The governing board of the Coolidge college voted unanimously last month to investigate allegations against Jenkins that included intimidating employees, violating policy and putting the school’s accreditation in danger.
Helmich said that her immediate goal is to listen and refocus the college on helping students learn.
“Creating lifelong learners is the mission of the college and the reason we exist,” she said.
Helmich joined CAC in 2001 as director of student success, while also spending time in the classroom as an adjunct faculty member. Since 2004 she has served as the dean of students and the chief student affairs officer, holding the title of vice president of student services prior to becoming interim president.
Details pertaining to a nationwide search for a new president will be announced by the CAC Governing Board at a future date.
