June 2015
Summer time--the synapse between academic calendars--affords us an opportunity to reflect on our organization's past, present and future. Specifically, we would like to recognize the dedicated efforts of Andrew LaManque over the past eight years in the service of the RP Group.
Andrew joined the RP Group Board in 2007 and completed his service on June 30, 2015. During this time, his capacity and responsibilities grew. He served as the Professional Development Chair in 2009, Vice President in 2010, President-Elect in 2011, President from 2012 to 2014 and Past President this past year. An intrepid and tenacious leader advocating for institutional research and planning across the state, Andrew's attention and interests ranged from professional development to research and evaluation efforts to the organization's strategic growth.
Andrew doubly focused efforts to improve and increase professional development opportunities for institutional research and planning departments statewide along with expanded professional development for all community college stakeholders. Working with current RP Group President, Matt Wetstein and the executive board, Andrew provided leadership to focus the RP Group's research and evaluation work on issues and opportunities currently facing California community colleges. Most recently, he led the effort to re-engage the RP Group in providing timely and needed professional development and technical assistance on institutional planning. Finally, he helped position the RP Group to operate efficiently and effectively while always focusing on financial and organizational sustainability.
In these eight years, Andrew has personified what it means to be a leader. He has a sense of purpose, and he has been deeply committed to the work of the RP Group and the CCC system. He has courageously spoken up and out about difficult or complex issues, especially in recent times of transition. At the same time, he has shown temperance and respect for everyone by listening thoughtfully and being willing to discuss various vantage points. The RP Group has always been able to count on and turn to leaders like Andrew. Thank you, Andrew, for the leadership and dedication you have provided over the past eight years!
This is also a reminder to you that we need leaders for the future. If you are interested in becoming more engaged with the RP Group as a volunteer or consultant, please contact Executive Director Mike Howe at 415-488-4611 or mhowe@rpgroup.org.