Joan Hanten, J.D.
Joan Hanten, J.D.
Joan Hanten, a longtime Olympic College leader, will begin serving as interim president on June 16, 2025. Appointed by the Board of Trustees, Hanten brings over 20 years of experience and deep ties to the community. During her one-year term, she aims to maintain momentum on key initiatives, including the Poulsbo campus expansion and the college’s growing healthcare programs. Hanten has held several leadership roles at OC and remains committed to advancing student success and community engagement.
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About the Interim President
About the Interim President
Joan Hanten brings more than two decades of leadership experience and deep institutional knowledge to her role as Interim President of Olympic College. She has held several key positions at the college, including Executive Director of Institutional Advancement & the Olympic College Foundation (2002–2012), Vice President of College Relations (2012–2014), Interim Vice President of Human Resources (2017–2019), and Special Projects Administrator in the Office of the President (2019–2020).
Among her many contributions to Olympic College, Hanten raised over $12 million for the college’s Foundation endowment, spearheaded the “I Am OC” rebranding campaign, and was honored with the OC Bridge Builder Award in 2006. She is also a graduate of the Washington Executive Leadership Academy (WELA), a program designed to prepare future community college presidents.
Hanten holds a Juris Doctor from Seattle University School of Law and a Bachelor of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies from the University of Portland.
A dedicated community leader, she serves as a commissioner for the Bremerton Housing Authority, a board member of the Admiral Theatre Foundation, and a trustee of The Bremer Trust. Her past service includes membership in the Bremerton Rotary and a role as Executive Director of Leadership Kitsap.
With a career rooted in public service, education, and community engagement, Hanten is well-positioned to lead Olympic College during this important period of transition.
COLLEGE ADMINISTRATION
COLLEGE ADMINISTRATION
Board of Trustees
The Board of Trustees is charged with establishing policies and decision-making with regard to legal matters, real property and/or personnel as defined by Revised Code of Washington Chapter 28B.50. Membership is comprised of five community members appointed by the Governor of the State of Washington. Find out more on our Board of Trustees page.
Executive Team
The Executive Team advises the President regarding the operations areas of the College. This role includes making recommendations on annual planning, environmental and institutional assessment, goal setting, strategy formation and budget development. Each member represents their respective area of responsibility. As a governing body, the Executive Team makes decisions about College policies and operations once appropriate research has been completed. Contact the President's Office for meeting information.
