There are approximately
1,200 community colleges in the United States. In addition, there are
more than 100 African-American community college CEOs. However, there
is only one Jerry Sue Thornton, the first female president of Cuyahoga
Community College, which is the largest community college in Ohio.
Described as "dynamic," "a powerful
force" and "engaging," Thornton
has committed her career to providing high-quality, accessible and affordable
educational opportunities to multicultural communities.
Dr. Thornton
and the college serve 60,000 students annually through more than 70 degree
programs. She manages a budget of $260.2 million, oversees three campuses
and two learning centers, and directs 1,596 full- and part-time faculty
and 800 support and administrative staff.
Jerry Sue Thornton
Since 1992, when Dr. Thornton joined the college, it has
updated its curriculum, implemented modern technology and opened technology
learning centers at several campuses. In addition, a theater and conference
center have been completed, and departments have been established and restructured
to better serve business and industry. Two Corporate College campuses were
built, during her tenure, to provide professional development and continuing
education to current employees in Northeast Ohio companies.
Dr. Thornton began
her career as a junior high school teacher in Kentucky, moved on to work at
a high school and then became a dean at Triton College in Illinois. In 1985,
she became president of Lakewood Community College in Minnesota and was named
to her current position in January 1992. Thornton earned bachelor's and master's
degrees from Murray State University (Kentucky) and a doctorate from the University
of Texas at Austin.
"Success is garnered one step at a time. There is no elevator to the top. Hard work, commitment and preparation are major parts of those steps."
Dr. Thornton serves on many boards, including those of National
City Corporation; Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum; United Way Services;
American Family Insurance; Applied Industrial Technologies, Inc.; RPM, Inc.;
and American Greetings Corporation.
Dr. Thornton's awards and honors reflect her
commitment to education and community service. Most recently, she was recognized
as one of the top 50 influential people in northeast Ohio. In addition, she
received the Spirit of Women community impact award from the Cuyahoga County
Section of the National Council of Negro Women, Inc., was inducted into the
Ohio Women's Hall of Fame, and received the 2000 Corporate Excellence Award
from the Urban League.
To America's students, she advises: "Success
is garnered one step at a time. There is no elevator to the top. Hard work,
commitment and preparation are major parts of those steps."
