Patrick Burkhart Mesa Community College announced today Mr. Patrick Burkhart has been hired to serve as MCC’s new Provost for the Red Mountain Campus and Downtown Center beginning July 23, 2012.

Dr. Shouan Pan, President of MCC commented, “Mr. Burkhart brings to MCC an impressive combination of senior-level leadership and management experience in higher education, county government, and private organizations.” He added, “Throughout his distinguished career, he has developed considerable expertise in strategic planning and budgeting, policy analysis, media relations, and resource, workforce and economic development. His successful track record in these areas will prove to be relevant and significant to the responsibilities of the Provost position and to the strategic priorities of Mesa Community College.”

“Mesa Community College is an extraordinary institution playing a catalytic role in shaping the future of the East Valley. Its vitality, vision, as well as its legacy of innovation, excellence and leadership is truly palpable. I am equally excited and honored to have been selected to be a part of this vibrant educational community, and I very much look forward to contributing to its future,” stated Mr. Burkhart.

Most currently, Mr. Burkhart was the Assistant Director, Workforce Development of the Maricopa County Human Services Department where he was instrumental in creating regional partnerships with the City of Phoenix, Maricopa Community College District, apprenticeship programs, faith based and other non-profit organizations. While working for Maricopa County he also held the positions of - Executive Director of Maricopa Workforce Connections, and Strategic Planning Coordinator.

Prior to working for Maricopa County, Mr. Burkhart developed and implemented strategic initiatives, guided congressional and agency relations and reformed university grants management as an employee at Arizona State University. During his tenure at ASU he served as Senior Development Officer for ASU College of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Associate Director of Development and Vice President for the ASU Foundation, and Executive Director for Strategic Research Initiatives.

In addition to his work experience, Mr. Burkhart has been involved with numerous community service initiatives focusing on education, economic and workforce development, social services, and other civic activities.

Mr. Burkhart has received numerous honors throughout his career. In 2009, he was named Human Resources Industry Leader of the Year by the Arizona Business Magazine. That same year, the National Association of Counties presented him with three Achievement Awards.

Mr. Burkhart possesses a Bachelor of Science Degree in Natural Sciences and Business Administration and a MBA in Health Care Administration from the University of Toledo.