Wednesday, July 27, 2011

Interim WDSC chief stepping down

Bob Williams
DAYTONA BEACH, FL (July 26, 2011) - Bob Williams, senior vice president at Daytona State College, this week announced he will resign in early September. 
Williams most recently was serving as interim general manager of Daytona State’s public television station WDCS – TV 15, helping to reposition the station’s focus and emphasis on the teaching and learning mission of the College after state and federal budget cuts this year forced WDSC to end its affiliation with the Public Broadcasting System. Prior to his role with WDSC, Williams led Daytona State’s Economic Development Division.
“I believe the television station is a critical component of Daytona State College and its future,” he said, “and I believe it is important for the College to find the best person possible to lead WDSC in this new and important role.”
WDSC’s Director of Educational Services Andrew Chalanick will take over day-to-day station operations until a permanent general manager is hired.
“Bob Williams has served Daytona State College with distinction and integrity for more than a decade,” said Interim President Frank Lombardo. “We are sorry to see him go, but appreciate all he’s done to help advance this institution to higher levels of excellence.”
A 1979 graduate of then Daytona Beach Community College’s Computer Science program, Williams went on to earn a graduate degree, then forged a successful career during the 1980s with IBM’s PC Development Team.  In 1990, he was a part of a start-up, venture-backed software company called Citrix Systems that had a highly successful initial public offering in 1995. In 1997 he retired from Citrix and agreed to serve as chair of the College’s Computer Science department.
“I returned with the intent to serve at my alma mater, Daytona Beach Community College, for just three years,” he said.  “I am appreciative and grateful for all the opportunities I’ve been given to use my skills and talents in support of this great institution, our students and our community.  But now, 14 years later, it is time for me to move on.” 
During the remainder of his tenure, Williams will help Daytona State’s new president, Dr. Carol Eaton, become acclimated with the various workforce and economic development relationships the College has throughout the community.