McLennan Community College President Johnette McKown, who guided the institution through an era of growth that included new educational programs and buildings, will retire next year.
“It has been the privilege of a lifetime to serve as president of McLennan Community College,” McKown said in a statement Tuesday, announcing her planned retirement. “I am deeply proud of what our team has accomplished together and of the strong foundation we have built for the future.”
McKown began her tenure as president in September 2009. She first joined MCC in 1989 as vice president of business services. Before moving to Waco, she served in roles at Paris Junior College, Vernon College and the University of North Texas.
Her last day on the job will be May 31, 2027, capping a 37-year career at MCC.
McKown was the third president in McLennan Community College’s history. The college’s board will begin a search for the next president and aims to announce a successor by next spring.
“Dr. McKown has provided exceptional leadership marked by unwavering integrity, a deep commitment to our students and a clear strategic vision,” said Earl Stinnett, chair of the MCC Board of Trustees. “She is a true servant leader, and her legacy will be defined by her tireless advocacy for students and their success. We are profoundly grateful for her service to MCC and the Waco community, and for the lasting impact she has made on this institution. While Dr. McKown will be greatly missed, we are confident in the strength of MCC’s leadership team and the College’s ability to continue moving forward. We wish her nothing but the best in her next chapter.”
McKown established several programs during her tenure. In her statement Tuesday, she highlighted the Honors College, student support services, scholarship and emergency funds. She also advanced workforce programs for dental assistance, fiber optics and occupational therapy.
McKown also focused on the college’s facilities and infrastructure, including the Science Building, Emergency Services Education Center, Michaelis Academic Center and Health Simulation Lab, and the transformation of the library into the Learning Technology Center.
“MCC is well-positioned for the future,” McKown said. “I have tremendous confidence in our faculty, staff and leadership team, and I am excited about the opportunities ahead for this College and the students we serve.”
Disclosure: McLennan Community College has been a financial supporter of The Waco Bridge, a nonprofit, nonpartisan news organization that is funded in part by donations from members, foundations and corporate sponsors. Financial supporters play no role in The Waco Bridge’s journalism. Find a complete list of them here.
