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Burgess Decides Against Running for JCC Board
Jackson Community College Board of Trustees member Michael W. Burgess, D.O., has announced that he will not seek re-election to the board.
Burgess was appointed to the Board of Trustees in May 2002 and elected in the Fall to fill a two-year vacancy. With the responsibilities of his job as a local physician keeping him busy, coupled with the College's financial situation, Burgess felt it was time to step down.
"This has been a difficult decision. On the heels of losing two millages, I think that sent a strong message that Jackson isn't really ready to support Jackson Community College. I view my position as a partnership between myself and the community. I expected the county would be a good partner and would fulfill their part to help us support the College," Burgess said. "I feel if the county isn't going to support the community college at this time, they don't give me the tools I need to serve as a trustee."
He will complete his term on the board, serving until Dec. 31. "It has been a good experience," Burgess said. "I've enjoyed working with the other board members, and I think we have strong leadership at the College with President Phelan and the support of administration and staff."
Burgess is a Jackson native who graduated from Lumen Christi High School in 1969, and attended JCC, receiving his Associate of Science in 1972. He attended the University of Osteopathic Medicine and Health Sciences in Des Moines, Iowa, receiving his doctorate in 1986. He has practiced in Jackson and had staff privileges at W.A. Foote Memorial Hospital since 1987.
JCC is governed by a seven-member Board of Trustees. Trustees are elected by Jackson County voters for six-year terms, with staggered elections every two years.
