Associate Chief Financial Officer for Facilities John Jenkins announced his resignation this past Monday, Feb. 10, in order to accept the position of vice president for facilities and operations at Quality Lease and Development, a Kansas City based construction firm.
President Kent Chabotar praised Jenkins for his “professionalism, superb management skills, and utmost concern for students and staff.”
“His departure for a position in private industry is a real loss to Guilford College, but a wonderful and deserved opportunity for him,” Chabotar said.
Rebecca Saunders, Director of Student Activities and Events Planning, also praised Jenkins for his work ethic. “John Jenkins is one of the most competent and professional and kind colleagues that I’ve ever had to work with, and I’ve worked with some real zingers. I will miss him terribly,” Saunders said.
Jenkins took some time to let The Guilfordian know what his future plans are, and to reflect on his time at Guilford:
What will you be doing at your new job?
I have accepted a position from a lease and development company that constructs and leases facilities to the US government. They have just completed the Western Archeological Conservation Center in Tuscan, Arizona, that houses artifacts from the southwest region. They also plan on a FBI building located in Chicago, IL, and many other buildings in the future. My role as vice president of facilities and operations will be to create the operations and procedures for the facilities, which include maintenance/preventative maintenance, custodial, landscaping, disaster plans and contracting services.
Why are you leaving?
The offer was recently presented to me from a long-time acquaintance with a compensation package that was enticing. My wife, June, will also be assisting me in developing the programs. This will give us the opportunity to work together.
How do you feel about Guilford College and the time you spent here?
In coming to Guilford three years ago I hope the programs I helped implement in renovations, repairs, and landscaping have benefited the community
Personally, in the physical plant, we have made tremendous strides in improving the work environment for the employees that help support other departments only because of the wonderful and dedication of the employees of this department. The community has become like family. I will not lose contact with those I’ve worked so closely with. Guilford has the tendency to grow on you.
I felt that over the years Don McNemar was an inspiration and mentor to me. He was very dedicated to this college. Phil Manz has offered tremendous support and encouragement to me as well. I will miss the opportunity to work with a true leader that I see in Kent Chabotar. I know he will take Guilford College to a new level. And Kizzy Elliott, my assistant, whose support and hard work will never be forgotten and the other managers and personnel who have worked so hard to make Guilford what it is today. Guilford College has many dedicated and wonderful people and I thank everyone for their support.
I wish you farewell but not goodbye.