Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Lenora Keas celebrated her retirement along with faculty, staff and friends at the Del Mar College Oso Creek campus Friday, Jan. 23.
After more than 40 years with Del Mar College, Keas moved into administration 17 years ago where she implemented her vision for Del Mar working alongside Del Mar President Mark Escamilla, faculty and administration.
“You’ve changed the very community that you live in”, said Escamilla during a speech at the retirement party.
Throughout her career Keas has served the college through various roles including professor, chair of the department of business administration, executive director of strategic planning and assessment, executive director of strategic planning and workforce development, vice president of workforce development and strategic initiatives, vice president of instruction and student services, vice president chief financial officer, and currently as executive vice president and chief operating officer.
“Lenora’s journey has been one of extraordinary leadership, resilience and purpose” said Del Mar College Regent Carol Scott. “Her impact can be seen in every corner of the institution.”
Keas contributed to the creation of reimagined academic and workforce programs, the new Oso Creek Campus, and the world-class industrial pilot plant complex located on the Windward Campus. Keas described the ability to see these projects roll out as “very rewarding” and noted the industrial plant as her most rewarding project.
Beyond the college she has worked closely with the community serving 25 years on the Driscoll Children’s Hospital Board and leadership with the Corpus Christi Economic Development Corporation. Her work with industry partners has also “helped move the entire region forward,” said Scott.
Andy Lehrman, Keas’ husband, is honoring her legacy through a new Lenora Keas Scholarship. Donations to help support the scholarship can be made at Give.delmar.edu/LenoraKeas. “That is a legacy that I hope will benefit so many students going forward,” said Lehrman.
