PWSC Director Dan O’Connor retiring in July

Dear UAA Community,

Dan O’Connor, director of Prince William Sound College, is retiring in July. I want to thank Dan for nearly nine years of service to our college and UAA. I’ve seen Dan in action — leading his team at PWSC, inspiring students and giving back to the community of Valdez. When I visited earlier this year, I witnessed Dan’s commitment to his community first-hand. On his way to campus early in the morning, he delivered homemade oatmeal to the local senior center. It’s a small example of Dan’s leadership, and a kind-hearted act he performs almost every day!

Dan’s accomplishments at PWSC are wide-ranging. He oversaw the creation of high-demand career programs including millwright, marine services technician and construction. He expanded programs like nursing and increased higher education opportunities for high school students in Valdez, Glennallen and Cordova. Under his leadership the college-sponsored Valdez Theater Conference grew into a major event. Dan also helped secure tuition funding and annual support for PWSC and local students through a partnership with the City of Valdez.

This week we will begin recruitment for an interim director to lead PWSC through the next academic year. This one-year appointment will ensure continuity for our college and students, while a full search is conducted for a permanent director. I encourage UAA staff to explore the opportunity and consider applying. You can find more details at Careers at UA.

Please join me in wishing Dan the best. You will be missed, Dan!

With Green & Gold Gratitude,
Sean Parnell
UAA Chancellor

April Archive