T-R PHOTO BY ADAM SODDERS - Kristie Fisher, left, will take over as Iowa Valley Community College District Chancellor Chris Duree this summer after a board decision Wednesday. She and her husband Drew, right, said they are happy to come to the community.

The Iowa Valley Community College District Board of Directors named Kristie Fisher the district’s new chancellor at a special meeting Wednesday.

The current ACT Inc. executive and former Kirkwood Community College administrator said she wants to get back to working with students and educators.

“It is an absolute honor and a pleasure to say I am joining the Iowa Valley team,” Fisher said upon the announcement. “I’m ready to start the work and be part of the community.”

The board’s decision was unanimous and came after several months of interviews, candidate visits and public meetings. Fisher was one of four finalists to be considered for the job.

She advertised herself as a strong communicator and experienced leader.

“I’ve had a wonderful experience, and now it’s time to turn the reigns over to my successor,” Duree said. “I have no doubt that she’ll be outstanding as chancellor. I’m excited to see her start and learn and grow, and I wish her nothing but the best.”

He and Fisher were fellow doctorate students at Iowa State University. Duree said he could tell Fisher had what he called an “X factor” and would make an excellent leader.

Iowa Valley board President Larry Johnson said he and other board members are excited to get started working with Fisher.

Fisher’s 15 years at Kirkwood saw her take many roles. She started as the district’s annual giving director in the 90s. Later, she became director of special projects and assistant to the president for two years and served as vice president of student services for eight years.

At ACT, Fisher is the senior director of national associations and market engagement.

She also has experience as director of community relations for College Community School District and as a grant administrator for the East Central Iowa Council of Governments.

Fisher holds a doctorate in higher education and a master of business administration.

Duree is set to officially retire June 30 and Fisher will take up the position July 1.

For her full resume, visit https://www.iavalley.edu/administration-board-of-directors/ivccd-chancellor-search/

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Contact Adam Sodders at (641) 753-6611

or asodders@timesrepublican.com