College of the Mainland has announced Dr. Beth Lewis as its seventh, and first female, president. Lewis’ contract is for three years, effective Jan. 1, 2013.
 
“I am grateful to the board for their confidence in me with the unanimous vote, and I am looking forward to doing some exciting things working with the great people at College of the Mainland and in our service area,” Lewis said.
 
Ralph Holm, board of trustees chairman, stated, “We are excited to bring on Dr. Lewis as our next president and first female president. We look forward to all the facets she brings with her past experiences. I think we will find her tenure here to be very exciting and progressive.”
 
Lewis comes with more than 25 years’ experience in higher education instruction and administration. Prior to accepting the presidency at COM, Lewis was vice president of academic affairs at Northeast Lakeview College. Lewis has also served as the dean of academic affairs at Blinn College in Brenham, Texas.
 
Lewis earned a Bachelor of Arts in English from the University of Texas at Austin, a Master of Arts in English and a doctorate in educational leadership from Sam Houston State University. She is also a certified mediator in workplace conflict.