Illinois dean bids for VP slot

Delta is looking for a new vice president of instruction and learning services. Jane Long, Dean of Academic Development and Learning Resources at Moraine Valley Community College in Palos Hills, Ill., is bidding for the position.

Jane Long said she is a collaborative leader focused on student success. She said she values community, leadership and teamwork.

Long has worked in an entreprenuer staffing company, human resources and as a web-based learning instructor. She conducted a survey at Delta for her dissertation.

Long described missing a reporting deadline due to perfectionism. She said she learned from her experience.

“It’s not about perfection; it’s about student success,” said Long.

Long described how she got computers donated to an organization for abused women. She was volunteering for the organization, helping with accreditation and administration, when they asked for her help in getting donations.

“We all face those challenges and what we do with them is what makes us what we are,” said Long.

Long described her definition of diversity as including gender, race, ethnicity, culture, ideas, opinions, experiences and background.

“Everyone has something unique to bring to the table,” said Long.

Long stated that challenges to academia include completion, student success, technology and revenue. She described the revenue challenges as decreased state funding, increased costs and keeping tuition low.

She said she’s not afraid to get her hands dirty when meeting these challenges.

Long said her solutions to the challenges are collaboration, communication, resource efficiency, strategic planning and valuing everyone.12