New GCC dean looks forward to challenge

By ISABELLE KLEINSCHMIDT

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Ironwood — While he doesn’t official begin his new position until Jan. 1; Gogebic County College’s new dean of instruction, Ryon List, is anxious to begin his new job.

“I’m looking forward to the change. I’ve been teaching for a number of years, and I’ve really enjoyed making a difference with students directly in the classroom,” List said. “I’m in a position now where I can make a bit of a difference within the institution itself.”

He said he was he excited to serve the college and its students.

“I appreciate the opportunity to serve the institution in this capacity, and I look forward to helping Gogebic Community College keep doing the great things it’s doing while continuing to keep moving forward.”

List, of Ironwood — who was named as the new dean Tuesday — has taught in the Language and Arts division at GCC since 2007. Since he started teaching, List has been actively working as the curriculum committee chair; advisor to the student newspaper, The Chieftain and been the department chair for the language and fine arts division. He also started an institution-wide assessment initiative and has been involved with the accreditation process through the Higher Learning Commission.

The search committee that recommended List for the dean position cited the quality of his interview, credentials and professional work experience in their recommendation.

He has a master’s of arts degree in composition and communication from Central Michigan University as well as bachelor’s degree in English and political science from Western Michigan University. He is currently enrolled in the Community College Leadership doctoral program at Ferris State University.

Outside of school, List enjoys spending time with his family. He has a wife, Heather, and three children ages 3, 6, and 9. Heather works as a project manager for a Wisconsin-based educational consortium, working with school districts in the state on their data and data-analysis needs.

The dean of instruction position focuses on curriculum, program development and faculty assistance.

“As we move forward as a college we need to meet the needs of the community, as well as expand our offerings,” List said. “I’d like to work with the faculty and staff to do that.”