JWCC president selected to become chancellor for Eastern Iowa Community Colleges

QUINCY — Bryan Renfro, John Wood Community College (JWCC) president, has been selected to assume the role of chancellor at Eastern Iowa Community Colleges (EICC). His last day at JWCC is planned for June 30.

Renfro began his tenure as JWCC’s seventh president on Jan. 4, 2023. He succeeded Michael Elbe, who retired on Dec. 31, 2022, after serving in the role for eight years.

As chancellor for EICC, Renfro will oversee Clinton, Muscatine and Scott Community Colleges which serve multiple counties in southeastern Iowa.

During his time at JWCC, Renfro advanced national initiatives such as Guided Pathways, Caring Campus and the Federation for Advanced Manufacturing Education (FAME). JWCC’s enrollment and retention figures have increased under Renfro.

“The JWCC Board of Trustees is extremely grateful for Dr. Renfro’s service,” Bob Rhea, chair of JWCC’s Board of Trustees, said in a press release. “His visionary leadership has positioned the college for continued success and raised the institution’s status both regionally and nationally. JWCC has benefitted from his energy, passion and experience. We absolutely wish him the best in this new endeavor.”

Rhea expressed confidence in JWCC’s leadership team to maintain the college’s positive trajectory during the presidential transition process. The Board of Trustees will meet within the next 15 days to determine next steps, which may include the need for an interim president and to establish a search process. 

“The selection, support and success of the president is one of the most important responsibilities of the Board,” Rhea shared. “We have a strong leadership team in place that is highly capable to direct the college as we thoughtfully consider the best approach to identify JWCC’s next leader. Our priority remains supporting our students, faculty, and the broader community while building on the momentum Dr. Renfro helped create.”

Before joining JWCC, Renfro held leadership roles at Paris Junior College, Tyler Junior College and Hawkeye Community College. He has taught courses in anthropology, criminal justice and education. Renfro earned a doctorate in higher education administration from Iowa State University with an emphasis in community college leadership, a master’s degree in anthropology from the University of Arkansas and a bachelor’s degree in anthropology from the University of Tennessee.