NWACC Board Approves Contract for Jorgenson

Northwest Arkansas Community College’s board of trustees approved Thursday a three-year contract for Evelyn Jorgenson, who will succeed Becky Paneitz as the school’s president.

Paneitz will continue to serve as president through June, with Jorgenson assuming the role on July 1, according to a release issued by the school.

The contract sets Jorgenson’s initial base salary at $176,826 per year, according to the release. Additionally, Jorgenson’s contract includes standard employee benefits, an annual housing allowance of $18,000 and the use of a furnished vehicle.

“We are delighted to have reached an agreement with Dr. Evelyn Jorgenson to serve as our next president,” NWACC board chairman Alex Vasquez said in the release. “I am confident she will be a great fit for the college and for Northwest Arkansas and will be able to build upon the great foundation laid by Dr. Bob Burns and by Dr. Becky Paneitz.”

According to the release, the board chose Jorgenson from among four finalists. A search committee had narrowed the field to that number after reviewing materials from 30 applicants from 17 states.

Paneitz announced her retirement in April.