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Justin Kohlman and his family (Photo supplied by GPRC)
By Shaun Penner
Justin Kohlman

Grande Prairie Regional College appoints new President and CEO

Aug 6, 2021 | 11:17 AM

Grande Prairie Regional College has found its next full-time President and CEO.

On Friday the post-secondary institution announced they have appointed Justin Kohlman to role, becoming the 10th President and CEO in GPRC’s history.

College officials refer to Kohlman as a community builder with “a proven track record of transformational post-secondary leadership.”

“We were looking for an exceptional post-secondary leader who would elevate our institution and the communities we serve. Justin is this leader,” said GPRC Board of Governors Chairperson Bridget Hennigar.

“We are delighted to welcome Justin to GPRC and look forward to the many exciting milestones ahead as our polytechnic journey continues to take shape.”

Officials say Kohlman has held leadership roles in both Australian and Canadian post-secondary institutions over the last 20 years.

Kohlman will take the position from interim President and CEO Dr. Glenn Feltham, who stepped into the role in March of 2021 after Dr. Robert Murray stepped down from the post after 15 months on the job.

“This is a wonderful time for our institution and the communities we serve,” said Dr. Feltham. “Our new President will provide a strong voice for our learning community, elevate our institution and strengthen the skills and competitiveness of our province.

“He is the right person to lead our amazing institution.”

College officials say Kohlman’s focus will be on guiding GPRC’s transition to polytechnic status and growing local opportunities.

“Together, we have the opportunity to build off of GPRC’s many strengths to create an exciting vision as we evolve into a polytechnic institute to serve our students and our region,” said Kohlman.

“I’m eager to be a part of this effort and look forward to harnessing the power of our new designation.”

Kohlman will officially begin his new role with GPRC in November.

by Shaun Penner