Scott Ward
VICTORY TOWNSHIP, Mason County — The West Shore Community College Board of Trustees recently completed its annual evaluation of President Scott Ward, praising his leadership and citing a series of accomplishments that have advanced the college’s mission and strengthened its position across the region.
Trustees conducted Ward’s annual performance review June 8, meeting with him to discuss the past year, review his self-evaluation and examine strengths, opportunities, aspirations and strategic priorities.
Ward was appointed president in 2017 and became the fifth president in West Shore Community College history after serving two terms as interim president.
In a statement issued by the board, trustees said Ward “continues to demonstrate exemplary leadership” and highlighted his leadership development efforts, institutional planning, advocacy and strategic vision.
“The Board of Trustees is extremely pleased with President Ward’s performance and leadership over the past year,” Board Chair Sherry Wyman said. “His commitment to thoughtful planning, workforce development, student success and community engagement continues to move West Shore Community College forward. We are seeing tangible results from the college’s strategic initiatives, and those successes reflect both his vision and his ability to bring people together around common goals.”
Trustees pointed to several major accomplishments during the past year, including West Shore Community College recording the highest number of graduates in its history in 2026, development of an additional campus initiative in Hart, and the successful passage of the college’s capital millage renewal.
The board also noted the continued implementation of the college’s strategic plan, saying the sustained involvement of campus leadership has produced meaningful results and provided a clear sense of direction for the institution.
“President Ward has demonstrated a strong commitment to ensuring West Shore remains responsive to the needs of students, employers and our communities,” Wyman said. “His leadership at both the local and statewide levels has helped position the college as a leader in workforce solutions and educational innovation.”
Trustees further recognized Ward’s participation in statewide community college organizations and initiatives, saying his involvement has elevated the college’s profile while helping advance workforce and educational opportunities throughout Michigan.
The board concluded its evaluation by commending Ward’s “thoughtful leadership, steadfast advocacy, and continued personal growth” in advancing the mission and vision of West Shore Community College.
Ward is serving under a three-year employment agreement that began July 1, 2025, and continues through June 30, 2028. Under the contract, he serves as the college’s chief executive officer and chief administrative officer, reporting directly to the Board of Trustees. His annual salary for the 2025-26 fiscal year is $194,900. The agreement also includes an $850 monthly automobile stipend, a $7,500 annual community engagement stipend, and an $18,000 annual annuity contribution. The contract allows for annual salary reviews by the board and requires a formal evaluation each year.
Under the agreement, trustees also consider each June whether to extend the contract by an additional year.
“The Board commends President Ward for his thoughtful leadership, steadfast advocacy and dedication to the college’s mission,” Wyman said. “We look forward to continuing to work together to serve our students and communities throughout the West Shore district.”
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