News Release for Immediate Release
News Release for Immediate Release
BREMERTON, Wash. – The Olympic College Board of Trustees appointed Joan Hanten as Interim President at its May 15 special meeting. Hanten will begin her tenure as Interim President on June 16.
“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.”
“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 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)
She currently serves as Managing Trustee of the Bremer Trust, a charitable organization established by the Bremer family with Olympic College as its sole beneficiary.
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)
Hanten 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, President Marty Cavalluzzi announced his retirement after seven years of leadership to Olympic College and 24 years of service to the community college system in Washington state, including as President of Pierce College Puyallup, Executive Vice President for Instruction and Chief Academic Officer at Edmonds Community College. Board Chair Bryant expressed gratitude for Dr. Cavalluzzi’s service to the College.
“On behalf of the Board of Trustees, we would like to thank Dr. Cavalluzzi for his dedication to Olympic College. He has set the bar high for student success. His efforts and support of Olympic College will have a lasting impact on our community,” Bryant said.
Dr. Cavalluzzi will continue to serve as President Emeritus through September 1, to assist Interim President Hanten with transition and administrative matters, and continue to work on the Healthcare Expansion Project at Olympic College Poulsbo.
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