Dr. Patrick Crane
Appointment: Director at Large
About
- Degrees: Bachelor of Arts (Anthropology) – Wesleyan University; Master of Philosophy (Higher Education) – University of Oslo; Ph.D. (Higher Education) – University of Georgia
- Affiliation: Strategy Director for State Policy, Lumina Foundation
- Other Affiliations: Previous roles: Vice President for Strategic Initiatives – North Carolina Community College System Office; Director, Office of Community Colleges & Workforce Development – Oregon Higher Education Coordinating Commission; Director of Policy & Strategic Initiatives – West Virginia Higher Education Policy Commission; Education Policy Advisor – Office of Governor Joe Manchin III
- Your connection to community colleges? I spent 15 years working in state higher education agencies, most of that time focused on community colleges. They are mission-driven, community-focused, flexible institutions that help people take their next steps. They are the Swiss Army knives of higher education!
- What do you love most about the NC Community College System? There’s a lot to love, but I think the vision of providing access to education for every North Carolinian within 30 minutes of their home is exceptional.
- A fun fact about you? My family is working on hiking in every state park in North Carolina (seven down, 34 to go).