Thompson named Dean of Students

Kim Thompson is the new Dean of Students at Shoreline Community College.

“The field of candidates made this a difficult decision,” Acting Vice President for Academic and Student Affairs John Backes said in making the announcement on Dec. 26, 2013. “I’m pleased that Kim’s breadth of experience will continue to benefit our students.”

Thompson is Associate Dean of Students, a position she’s held for the past year. At the same time, she has maintained her responsibilities as Director of the Office of Special Services. Thompson has been a student, classified employee, faculty member and administrator at Shoreline. After getting an Associate in Arts degree at Shoreline, she went on earn a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Seattle University and then a Master’s degree in Social Work from the University of Washington.

“I’m gratified by the confidence placed in me for this appointment,” Thompson said. “I’m committed to doing everything we can to help our students meet their goals.”

The Dean of Students position had been vacant since December, 2012, and the departure of the former dean, Tonya Drake. Since then, Thompson and Yvonne Terrell-Powell, Director of Equity, Engagement & Counseling Services, and High School Programs, have served as associate deans, splitting the dean duties.

As part of her role with the Office of Special Services, Thompson launched a center for returning military students funded by $370,000 grant by the U.S. Department of Education. Shoreline has been honored with “Military Friendly” status for the past three years.

Thompson’s first day as Dean of Students will be Jan. 2, 2014. Backes said no decisions have been made regarding the now-vacant Office of Special Services position.