May 2, 1999 - 5:00pm
Halloween will be a big day for Glenn Johnston. October 31, 1999 is the day Johnston officially leaves his vice-president’s post at Malaspina and heads into retirement.
"Malaspina is such a successful university-college because people here with talent, skills and commitment are encouraged to be the best that they can be," says Johnston. "I’ve really enjoyed my time at Malaspina. It’s been an unbelievable professional opportunity."
Johnston has worked for four Malaspina presidents during 23 years. He began his career as a social worker at Brannen Lake Correctional Centre and became a part-time faculty member in social work and physical education. He was hired full-time in 1974.
Johnston moved up the corporate ladder quickly - first as coordinator of Community Education, then Director of Community Education, and then Associate Dean of Community Education, Regional Campuses and International Education.
Johnston resigned from the institution after being recruited by the Juan de Fuca Parks and Recreation Commission to take on a community development assignment. Three years later, in 1986, Johnston accepted one of three job offers and returned to Malaspina to begin a university program and develop a new regional campus in Cowichan.
"I’ve had an unbelievable opportunity to be involved with people at Malaspina who make things happen," says Johnston, who cites the Cowichan campus opening as one of his proudest moments in his professional career. Working with the faculty, students and the board on developing a university-college degree granting institution is another highlight.
Johnston was invited back to the main campus to become Associate Dean of Regional Campuses, Continuing Education and International Education in 1988. He’s been vice-president for the past 10 years.
How does he feel about retirement?
"There are lots of other things I’d like to do after I have a break," he says. "I’m still a teacher. That’s what I came to Malaspina to do. "If there was an opportunity down the road to teach one or two courses here or elsewhere, I would consider it."
Johnston and his wife plan to move to Sidney once he retires. "My two eldest children attended Malaspina before graduating from other universities," says Johnston. "My two other children are currently Malaspina students."
Johnston’s advice to his replacement? "You mean besides good luck?" he quips.
"I would tell him to remember that while you’re part of creating bureaucracy, you’re here to serve the students. As long as you never forget that focus, you’ll have a good grounding in the decisions you make."
Tags: In the Community
