SAIPAN — The Northern Marianas College Board of Regents has appointed Senior Vice President Frankie M. Eliptico as interim president, effective July 27, as Dr. Galvin Deleon Guerrero takes official leave of absence from the presidency to pursue public office.
The board announced the leadership transition Thursday, saying the appointment follows Board of Regents policy.
“Dr. Deleon Guerrero has served the College with unwavering commitment and a deep belief in taking care of our community, resources, and people,” said Michelle Lin Sablan, acting chairperson of the NMC Board of Regents. “The Board extends its sincere appreciation for his dedicated service to Northern Marianas College.”
Sablan said Eliptico has served the college in multiple leadership capacities and most recently as senior vice president, overseeing critical institutional operations, advancements and external relations. She said his extensive knowledge of the institution, leadership experience and commitment to the college community make him well prepared to lead NMC during the transition.
“The Board of Regents has every confidence that the College will continue sailing ahead,” Sablan said. “The important work of serving our students, supporting our employees, strengthening our academic and workforce programs, and fulfilling our mission to the Commonwealth remains our highest priority.”
The board thanked the college’s faculty, staff, administrators, students, alumni and community partners for their dedication as the institution continues recovery from the recent super typhoons, and asked the college community to support Eliptico as he assumes the role.
“Northern Marianas College will continue its academic programs, student services, and institutional operations without interruption during the leadership transition as it continues serving the students and communities of the Commonwealth,” Sablan said.
The transition takes effect three days after NMC’s 45th commencement, set for Friday at the American Memorial Park Amphitheater.
