The West Hills Community College District (WHCCD) announced that Fresno City President Robert Pimentel will be the new chancellor starting Aug. 1.  

He will succeed Dr. Kristin Clark upon her retirement at the end of July. Clark served at West Hills as the Lemoore College president for nearly six year and the past three as the District’s chancellor.

“I am honored to join the West Hills Community College District and look forward to working with the dedicated faculty, staff, and community to continue advancing our mission of providing outstanding educational opportunities,” said Pimentel in a press release. “Together, we will strive to create an inclusive and innovative environment that empowers our students to achieve their academic and career goals.”

Pimentel’s experience brings a wealth of knowledge in higher education and a deep commitment to student success, according to a West Hills news release.

A Valley native, Pimentel has dedicated his career to serving the Central Valley community. For the past two years, he has served as the president of Fresno City College, the largest community college in the region. Before this role, he served as the same institution’s vice president of educational services and institutional effectiveness. 

Before joining Fresno City College, Pimentel spent nearly 18 years with the West Hills Community College District, working in various capacities at both campuses and the district office.

“We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Pimentel as our new Chancellor,” said Mark McKean, the WHCCD Board of Trustees President, in a press release. “His vision for the future of our district, coupled with his commitment to the Central Valley, will ensure that West Hills continues to thrive and provide exceptional opportunities for our students.”  

Pimentel will officially assume the role of chancellor on Aug. 1, leaving the State Center Community College District (SCCCD) to identify an interim president for Fresno City College. The SCCCD board will then oversee the national search for the next president.