Kherz’den Humphrey
Editor-In-Chief
At the end of the 2021-22 school year, Crowder will be saying goodbye to Dr. Glenn Coltharp. After being the President for 3 years, and being in the education profession for 40, the time has come for Dr. Coltharp to begin a new journey.
“Dr. Coltharp’s whole life was preparation for being president of Crowder College.” States Andy Wood, the Board of Trustees Chair. “Dr. Coltharp brought immense background and experience to the Crowder presidency.” In an article by Steven Brunson, Andy Wood also stated that he was “the obvious choice”.
Before becoming president, Dr. Coltharp was the Vice President of Academic Affairs where he was closely involved with the learning and faculty. This helped making the switch to president a little smoother and even gave him a little preparation for two of Crowder’s biggest challenges.
In July of 2019, Crowder was victim to a ransomware attack, and in March 2020, campus closed down due to COVID-19. Dr. Coltharp was president for both of these challenges, and he saw it as a blessing to be there. They were some of the biggest issues a college president could face, and he is proud they were able to successfully maneuver both crises.
“Dr. Coltharp’s background, experience and familiarity with Crowder made him the best person to deal with these two crises. He did a great job on both.” Wood says. Jennifer Gilliam, who worked in Academic Affairs with Dr. Coltharp feels the same way, “we could not have been more blessed to have him during these times.”
Gilliam worked with Dr. Coltharp in Academic Affairs for two years, and said it was a joy working with him. “I learned a lot from him, he is pleasant and has a wonderful sense of humor.”
Having been in education for 40 years, Dr. Coltharp couldn’t pick just a single year as his favorite. “Each position was different, each was positive for different reasons, I made a lot of friends and will always value those friendships.” If he had to pinpoint a favorite thing about being in education, it would have to be the connections he makes.
Dr. Coltharp has had so many different experiences in education, and every year has been different, so picking a favorite wasn’t something he feels he can do. However, one of his favorite memories is something very heartfelt.
“I was able to be a male role model to kids who didn’t have that,” Dr.Coltharp explained. “It gave them understanding that guys could read poetry, sing a song with the class, and when the space shuttle crashed we all cried together. That’s when they realized it’s okay for guys to cry.”
Being that role for those students was a different kind of pride, better than seeing his name on a plaque of a building he helped build. Years later, he saw a past student in public, where the now grown man, shared that he “raised his children how Mr. Coltharp would.” It was one of his favorite and most memorable moments.
Dr. Coltharp is not the only one who has great memories of his years in education. Previous coworker in Academic Affairs, Adam Morris reminisced about the lunches they would share, and the close conversations they had while working together. Although, his favorite is the “Glenn Coltharp Memorial Handrail”.
“Long story short, one graduation he fell into the building and had to wash and dry his pants in the bathroom. We still tease him about that incident.” Morris says. This particular handrail can be found outside McDonald Hall.
After making having many joyous moments at Crowder, Dr. Coltharp will be sharing but not yet passing on the torch in December of 2021 when the new president will be chosen. “I hope they move us ahead and honor history, believe strongly in servant leadership and continue with that thinking.” Dr. Coltharp mentions.
When the next president is chosen, Dr. Coltharp will work side by side with them for a bit to help them adjust and learn the ropes of presidency. “I won’t be their boss, so it will all really just be FYI. I want to give them a heads up but not push them down the wrong road. They should have their own vision and I don’t want to sway that vision.” He states.
After he officially retires in May, he doesn’t have a plan set in stone of what he wants to do. Currently he is wanting to look at all the options he has, from nothing to a new job in a different retirement system (not Missouri education). One option he ha considered is Pittsburg State University, where his wife is a mathematics professor, he would want to help the institution.
“I hope that Crowder continues to be Crowder. It’s the best school anywhere, the students are number one. Decisions are made in the best interest of students and I hope that continues. Crowder has a great past and I hope we grow on that and continue to move forward.” Dr. Coltharp says as his parting wishes for Crowder.
Although he is leaving the presidential position, Dr. Coltharp, along with his wife still plan to support and attended Crowder events. From one journey to the next, Crowder wishes Dr. Coltharp success and happiness in any adventure he chooses.
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