The board of trustees of the Community College System of New Hampshire (CCSNH) has appointed Patrick Cate as interim president of Lakes Region Community College (LRCC) in Laconia. Cate’s appointment will take effect July 21, upon the departure of outgoing president Dr. Larissa Ruiz Baia.
“I thank Patrick for his willingness to serve as interim president and lead the college at this time,” said Mark Rubinstein, CCSNH chancellor. “As is customary in leadership transitions, we will use this period of time to evaluate the circumstances and opportunities before the college. Our mission of service to students and the region remains the essential guiding principle that will shape our planning as we move forward.”
Cate, a resident of Campton, New Hampshire, first came to LRCC in 2018 as associate vice president of Academic and Student Affairs, and in 2019 was promoted to vice president of Academic and Student Affairs. Cate has nearly two decades of higher education administrative experience prior to joining LRCC. He held a variety of roles at Plymouth State University including dean of Student Success, director of the College of University Studies, academic and transfer advisor, and teaching positions at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. Cate also served as director of Academic and Career Advising at Rivier University in Nashua.
“I am grateful for the support of the board of trustees and the chancellor, and look forward to working with my colleagues at LRCC to continue providing exceptional opportunities for our students,” said Cate. “I am a strong believer in the community college mission. I have seen first-hand the talent and determination of our students and the pride we all take in their success. I was happy to heed the call to serve in this interim capacity and I am especially looking forward to the energy that surrounds the start of a new academic year. This is a great time for students of any age and background to further their education and position themselves for success!”
Lakes Region Community College is a fully accredited, comprehensive community college located in the Lakes Region of New Hampshire that serves over 1,200 students annually and offers housing options for students. LRCC offers more than 40 degree and certificate programs, including Automotive and Marine Technology, Fire Science, Nursing, Culinary Arts, Business, Accounting, and more. In addition, LRCC provides a strong background in Liberal Arts for students who choose to complete their first two years at a community college and then transfer to a four-year college or university for a baccalaureate degree. Business and industry training programs are also available. Lakes Region Community College is part of the Community College System of New Hampshire. For more information, visit lrcc.edu
