| Jerry Sue Thornton,
Ph.D. 2007 Honoree |
 Print-Friendly
Version |
| 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. |
 |
|
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."
^ Top