University of Alaska Anchorage Chancellor Elaine Maimon today announced that she has reluctantly accepted the resignation of Prince William Sound Community College (PWSCC) President Jo Ann C. McDowell. 

Dr. McDowell cited personal family issues as the reason for her resignation. She successfully led PWSCC for 12 years, achieving an unprecedented level of support from its home community of Valdez. Dr. McDowell also developed a nationally acclaimed theatre conference which annually brings the best and brightest in the theatre world to Valdez and PWSCC.

In recognition of her outstanding achievements on behalf of the college and the community, Dr. McDowell is awarded the title of President Emerita.

Doug Desorcie, PWSCC’s Dean of Instruction, has agreed to serve as Interim President of PWSCC. Dawson Moore will remain as coordinator of the Last Frontier Theatre Conference, which will continue annually in Valdez.