Retired WHC Lemoore President earns honorary 'President Emeritus' status

Warkentin retired as President of WHCL, a position he has held since 2004, in December. The recommendation to give Warkentin the title was made to the board by his longtime friend and colleague, WHCCD Chancellor Dr. Frank Gornick, and was unanimously approved by the board.

“Mr. Don Warkentin served the West Hills Community College District with distinction for nearly 30 years,” said Gornick. “His provision of good and faithful service to the students, employees, and communities has earned him the respect, admiration, and accolades deserving of a status as President Emeritus. In recognition of exceptional service and continuing contributions to the District and its colleges, it is with pride and honor that I request the Board of Trustees grant this status – President Emeritus – to Mr. Don Warkentin.”

Warkentin began his career in education in 1973 as a biology teacher for Lemoore High School, where he also served as a football coach, baseball coach, athletic director and principal of the continuation school. In 1986, he began his work at West Hills College as Associate Dean of what was then the WHC Kings County Center.

"It was quite a surprise," said Warkentin, who said Gornick had called him the day before asking him to come by the regular board meeting. It was at the board meeting when trustees spring the emeritus title on him. "I didn't know what was on the agenda. It's a great honor. I have a lot of fond memories of West Hills College and West Hills Lemoore," he added.

"This is something I'll cherish forever."

Under his guidance, WHCL became its own campus in 2002. He also oversaw a variety of expansion projects, including the building of the Golden Eagle Arena and a new student center. With his leadership, the college has grown from 700 students in portable buildings to over 3,000 students on a brand new campus.

He has also been active in the Lemoore community as a member of the Lemoore Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors and Kiwanis Club as well as the Kings County Economic Development Corporation Board of Directors.  Warkentin is a former U.S. Army officer who served in Vietnam.