Calhoun Community College Interim President Joe Burke announced his retirement Monday after almost 35 years with the Alabama Community College System. His last day will be May 28.
Burke was named interim president at Calhoun three years ago, a post that was slated to only last a few months.
“Dr. Burke is a good man with a humble spirit. He served Calhoun with strength and integrity for the past three years. He knows the business of teaching and learning and we will miss him,” said Wes Torain, director of public relations and digital media.
Under Burke’s leadership, Calhoun opened a new nursing simulation lab on its Huntsville campus and a new $7 million automotive technology instruction center on its Decatur campus. In addition, the college announced plans for a new $15 million residence hall for the Alabama Center for the Arts and opened a new e-sports competitive gaming studio.
“We have made tremendous progress during difficult times,” said Burke. “As you know, we were consumed by the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 and part of this year as well. We made every effort to keep the college moving forward. These accomplishments over the past three years are to the credit of great faculty and staff who skillfully and compassionately serve our students, directly and indirectly, each day.”
Burke was recognized for his leadership at Calhoun in 2020 by Alabama Senators Tom Butler, Steve Livingston and Arthur Orr on behalf of the Alabama Senate, when he was presented with an official resolution certificate.
Prior to his post at Calhoun, Burke served as vice president and dean of instruction for 11 years at Northeast Community College in Rainsville. He earned his bachelor’s degree and his Ph.D. from the University of Alabama, and his master’s from Jacksonville State University.
