News Release for Immediate Release
BREMERTON, Wash. – The Olympic College Board of Trustees appointed Joan Hanten as Interim President at its May 20 meeting.
Hanten currently serves as Managing Trustee of the Bremer Trust, a charitable organization established by the Bremer family with Olympic College as its sole beneficiary.
She brings nearly two decades of leadership experience at Olympic College, having served in several key roles:
Special Projects Administrator, Office of the President (2019 – 2020)
Interim Vice President, Human Resources (2017 – 2019)
Vice President, College Relations (2012 – 2014)
Executive Director, Institutional Advancement & Olympic College Foundation (2002 – 2012)
“I am honored to step into this role,” said Hanten. “This is a pivotal moment for Olympic College as we begin the search for a new president and continue building momentum around our healthcare expansion and other strategic initiatives.”
At the same meeting, the Board approved plans to hire an executive search firm and form a Presidential Search Advisory Committee to support the transition.
“Joan is exceptionally qualified to lead the college during this period of transition,” said Board Chair Harriette Bryant. “She brings deep institutional knowledge and strong community connections built through years of service and volunteerism.”
Hanten has held numerous community leadership roles, including:
Commissioner, Bremerton Housing Authority (since 2016)
Board Member, Admiral Theatre Foundation
Member, Bremerton Rotary (2002–2014)
Executive Director, Leadership Kitsap (1996–1998)
She holds a Juris Doctor from Seattle University School of Law and a Bachelor of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies from the University of Portland.
In February, current Olympic College President Marty Cavalluzzi announced his retirement, effective Sept. 1, 2025.
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