DMACC President Rob Denson to retire this year

Des Moines Area Community College President Rob Denson has announced his retirement after more than 20 years with the college and more than 40 years in higher education.

Denson will stay on at the community college until Dec. 30, according to a news release, and will stay in Ankeny with his wife, Pat, and spend time with his family.

Since starting at the community college in 2003, Denson has become the longest-running president in DMACC’s history, according to the release. Denson said in a statement he and the college have accomplished much together during his tenure, and he thanked the DMACC faculty and staff that have helped make the college better.

“I’m most proud of each and every one of the thousands of students who have walked across our stage at graduation,” Denson said. “By enrolling at DMACC these Iowans have opened new doors to careers, greater prosperity and success for themselves, their families, and communities.”

The college’s board of trustees plans to hire a consultant to launch a national search for its next president, according to the release, and also will work with the DMACC campus community to learn what its needs are for a new leader.

DMACC Board President Joe Pugel said in a statement the next president should have qualities that include “experience managing a large organization, high ethical standards, fiscal expertise, ability to form partnerships and a student-first attitude.”

He said DMACC has grown and thrived under Denson’s presidency, with his skills, values and attitude serving him well.

“Rob will be greatly missed as he has set a high bar for the next President,” Pugel said. “Due to his leadership, DMACC’s future is set on a solid foundation and will move forward in a positive direction. We’re grateful for his vision and the strong institution he leaves behind.”

This article first appeared in the Iowa Capital Dispatch.