The Redlands Community College Board of Regents have named Jena Marr the eighth president of the college. Marr, who has been serving as interim president since April 1, will assume the position immediately. She is the first woman to serve as president of the college.
“After engaging with faculty, staff, students and the community to evaluate past, current and future leadership, we are confident that Mrs. Marr is the ideal candidate to lead Redlands into a new era characterized by excellence and growth,” said Janie Thompson, chairman of the Redlands Board of Regents. “She is a highly respected administrator with a solid understanding of the needs of our students, employees, communities and businesses to advance the college’s mission.”
During her decade with Redlands, Marr advanced to executive vice president of Administration & Finance before being named executive vice president/chief of staff.
“I am truly honored and excited to take on the role of president. I am eager to continue building on the progress we’ve made and working with our dedicated faculty and staff to cultivate a collaborative and student-centered environment,” Marr said. “I look forward to engaging with our community and area businesses to expand and strengthen our many partnerships."
With nearly 25 years of experience in higher education, Marr served as purchasing director at Oklahoma Panhandle State University before joining Redlands as vice president of finance in April 2013. Prior to her career in higher education, she worked in the private sector as an accountant and controller.
A graduate of Texhoma High School, she earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Oklahoma Panhandle State University and continued her education at West Texas A&M University, earning a master’s degree in business administration. She is currently pursuing a doctorate in education.