TOMS RIVER – The Ocean County College Board of Trustees has announced that Dr. Pamela Monaco will be the next president of Ocean County College and is set to officially join on July 1, 2023.
Currently, Dr. Monaco serves as the Vice President of Academic and Student Affairs at Wilbur Wright College in Chicago, Illinois.
“A passionate advocate for community colleges, Dr. Monaco believes that education transforms lives, and she has consistently demonstrated her commitment to removing the barriers that stand in the way of student success,” Board Chair Jerry Dasti said. “The Board is confident that Dr. Monaco will be a dynamic and proactive leader at OCC, one who shares our values and goals for the future and whose strategic vision and collaborative spirit will position the College to thrive and excel in the years ahead.”
Dr. Monaco will succeed OCC’s President Jon H. Larson, who previously announced back in April that he will step down from his role at the end of June 2023. However, Dr. Larson will be serving as a part-time counselor for two years to assist with the transition.
According to a press release, Dr. Monaco impressed the Search Committee and the Board of Trustees with her “dedication to educational excellence and her long-standing commitment to meeting the diverse needs of the students she serves.”
“On behalf of the Board, I want to express my appreciation to the Search Committee for its time and efforts and to the entire College community for participating in the process that led to the selection of Dr. Monaco,” Dasti said.
Dr. Monaco received a bachelor’s degree in business administration from George Washington University and master’s and doctoral degrees in English from The Catholic University of America. She has more than 30 years of experience in higher education, including senior leadership roles in higher education institutions in Kansas, California, and Florida.
