Park Hills—Mineral Area College (MAC) has announced that its president, Dr. Joe Gilgour, is one of four finalists for the American Association of Community Colleges (AACC) CEO of the Year award.
According to AACC, this national recognition honors Gilgour’s “exceptional leadership and commitment to enhancing educational opportunities for students and the community.”
Since taking on the presidency in 2019, Gilgour has significantly expanded MAC’s reach and impact on the region. His strategic vision has included increasing the college’s service area, particularly by establishing an outreach center in Cape Girardeau. These strategic initiatives, among others, have reversed prior enrollment declines and created access to quality, affordable education for more students.
The president of the school’s board of trustees, Lisa Umfleet, has been outspoken about Gilgour’s leadership and advocacy, both locally and in Jefferson City. She recently noted that his efforts have been vital in securing essential funding for the college.
“Dr. Gilgour has been instrumental in securing nearly $25 million in public and private funding over the past five years,” she said. “These funds have been transformative, allowing a significant expansion of MAC Tech industry and technology education offerings.”
According to Umfleet, the funding has allowed MAC to expand by adding over 100,000 square feet of cutting-edge MAC Tech facilities dedicated to career training on the main campus. He is also leading efforts to establish additional MAC Tech facilities in Ste. Genevieve and Cape Girardeau counties to directly meet the region’s workforce needs by equipping students with valuable, in-demand skills that benefit local industry.
Gilgour holds an Ed.D. in Higher Education Administration from St. Louis University, a Master of Science in College Student Personnel from Arkansas Tech University, and a Bachelor of Arts in Theatre and Psychology from Southwest Baptist University. A native of Chillicothe, he brings two decades of experience in higher education to his role as the leader of Mineral Area College.
“I am honored to be named a finalist for this award,” said Gilgour. “However, this recognition truly belongs to MAC's incredible faculty, staff, and administration. Their commitment to student success is the driving force behind all our achievements. I am privileged to serve alongside such a talented and passionate team.”
The winner of the CEO of the Year award will be announced on April 15 at the AACC Annual Convention in Nashville, Tenn.
