Retired MCC Dean Honored in Naming Ceremony
Manchester, Conn., – (May 15, 2008)…When Dean Emeritus John V. (Jack) Gannon began his career at Manchester Community College in 1963, the College was a newly formed institution in Connecticut’s Community College system. After 34 years of service, and in recognition of his leadership, MCC and the Board of Trustees of Connecticut Community-Technical Colleges formally approved the naming of the Continuing Education offices in honor of Gannon. During a formal ceremony held at the College in May, the Continuing Education offices have been named The John V. Gannon Continuing Education Center.
The John V. Gannon Continuing Education Center
Ribbon Cutting
The John V. Gannon Continuing Education Center is located in the Learning Resources Center and houses the College’s Continuing Education Division. The Continuing Education Division provides programs relevant to changing community needs and promotes the College as a focus of lifelong learning. Credit and credit-free courses, seminars and workshops, as well as many cultural activities and special educational services are offered through the division.
A natural leader and visionary, Gannon was appointed assistant dean of students by President Lowe in 1963, and then associate dean of Student Affairs in 1966. He was named dean of Continuing Education in 1983 and held that position until he retired in 1997. After retiring, Gannon assisted the College in 1998 by serving as acting dean of Institutional Development, and acting division director of Liberal Arts. In addition to his career in the Student Affairs and Continuing Education Divisions, Gannon was an instructor at the College and served on the Tolland County Chamber of Commerce, chaired the Economic Development Council for the Town of Manchester, and served on the Manchester Community College Foundation Board.
The John V. Gannon Continuing Education Center
During the naming ceremony, Dr. Jonathan M. Daube, president of MCC described Gannon as “one of the key founders of the College, a person that really understands what community college is really all about.”
According to the recommendation presented to the Board of Trustees, Gannon is characterized as a person with integrity, a team player, a consummate manager and mentor. He was instrumental in expanding the older adults programs; developing the enrichment children’s program, Excursions in Learning; enhancing the business and industry services, and weekend and off-campus programs.
“Jack is creative and innovative,” stated Thomas N. Bavier, dean of administrative affairs at MCC. “His highest achievement was his positive relationships with those within and outside the College community; in many ways, Dean Gannon represents all the positive attributes of Manchester Community College.”
Students of any age who possess the desire to pursue higher education are welcome at Manchester Community College. MCC is proud of its academic excellence, new facilities, flexible schedules, small classes, low tuition and faculty with both academic and “real world” credentials. The College offers over 60 programs, transfer options, financial aid and scholarships, as well as access to baccalaureate degrees through guaranteed admissions programs with several universities. MCC is situated on a park-like campus and is easily accessible from I-84.
– # # # –
