By Jorge Casuso

January 21, 2014 – Santa Monica College is looking for applicants to fill the seat on the Board of Trustees vacated by Judge David Finkel, who announced last week that he was stepping down due to health problems.

The board is scheduled to appoint a new member at its meeting February 4 to serve until voters elect a new trustee in November for a four-year term.

Applicants must be at least 18 years old, reside in the district, be registered to voter and not be disqualified from holding civil office by the Constitution or any law of the state.

Trustees of Santa Monica College -- which serves approximately 33,000 students -- must have the ability and time to attend all meetings and some college events, study issues and agenda items and participate in trustee education programs.

They also must know the community they serve and understand the needs of its diverse groups, be committed to the college’s mission and understand educational, social and economic policy issues.

Among the board’s responsibilities are hiring the Superintendent/President and “ensuring the fiscal health and sustainability of the college,” according to college officials.

Among the criteria used in selecting a candidate are the applicant’s interest in and commitment to serving the community and to public education and student learning, as well as a knowledge of the issues considered by the board.

Candidates must be willing and able to represent those who live in the service area, advocate for the District and its interests to the community and state and “articulately express perspectives and respect the perspectives of others,” officials said.

The ideal candidate not only should have the time, ability and energy to serve on the board, but also should possess the “qualities, background, and stature that will enhance the standing of the District in the community,” officials said.

A former City Council member and retired Superior Court Judge, Finkel served on the board since 2006. He officially stepped down January 14.

The board meets on the first Tuesday of each month in the Board Room, which is located in the Business Building, Room 117. Meetings begin at 7 p.m., or at 5:30 p.m. if a closed session is scheduled.

Applications, in either hard copy or electronic format, must be received by January 24, 2014 at 5 p.m. For an application, visit http://www.smc.edu/ACG/BoardofTrustees/Pages/2014-Board-Vacancy.aspx
For more information call the SMC District Office at 310.434.4402.