Imperial Valley College Welcomes Interim Superintendent/President Dr. James Limbaugh

-Editorial 

Imperial Valley College welcomed Dr. James Limbaugh on Monday, August 3, as its interim superintendent/president, bringing more than 30 years of higher education leadership experience to the college as it continues its commitment to student success and institutional excellence. 

Limbaugh will provide leadership during the transition as the college conducts its search for a permanent superintendent/president. His appointment ensures continuity while supporting the college’s Vision 2030 Comprehensive Master Plan and the momentum established through recent institutional achievements, including earning the 2023 Aspen Prize. 

As he begins his tenure, Limbaugh said four priorities will guide his leadership over the coming months: advancing the Vision 2030 Comprehensive Master Plan, maintaining clear and transparent communication, providing stable leadership throughout the superintendent/president search process, and supporting the programs and services that have contributed to Imperial Valley College’s success. 

“I am honored to begin my service as the interim superintendent/president of Imperial Valley College,” Limbaugh said. “Over the coming months, I look forward to working collaboratively with the Board of Trustees, faculty, staff, students, and our community as we continue building on the college’s strong foundation while supporting the important work already underway.” 

Most recently, Limbaugh served nine years as president of West Los Angeles College, becoming the longest-serving president in the institution’s history. During his tenure, the college launched two bachelor’s degree programs, earned designation as an Aspen Top 150 College, established a nationally recognized Center for Climate Change Education, expanded basic needs services for students, and completed major campus facilities and infrastructure improvements. 

Before West Los Angeles College, Limbaugh served as interim president of Oxnard College, where he led a successful reaccreditation effort while strengthening community partnerships and outreach initiatives. He also served as chancellor of Montana State University-Northern, where he championed student success, expanded community engagement, and led a successful capital campaign. In recognition of his commitment to student success, he was named by the Montana Student Association (representing all Montana institutions) as the 2013 ‘Student Advocate of the Year.’ 

Earlier in his career, Limbaugh held several executive leadership positions at Angelo State University, including vice president for strategy, planning and policy, interim vice president of student services, and interim vice president of academic affairs. In those roles, he led strategic planning initiatives, strengthened institutional operations, and implemented programs that improved student retention and success. 

Limbaugh holds a doctorate in educational policy and leadership from the University of Maryland, a master’s degree in counseling and guidance from Texas A&M University, and bachelor’s degrees in English, business and history. 

While his professional experience spans institutions across the country, Limbaugh said his immediate focus is on listening, learning and building relationships throughout Imperial Valley. 

“I look forward to meeting students, employees and community members as I spend time across our campuses and throughout Imperial Valley,” Limbaugh said. “I’m excited to learn more about the college, its outstanding people and the communities we proudly serve.” 

Limbaugh’s leadership experience and student-centered approach will help ensure a smooth transition as Imperial Valley College continues building on its legacy of educational excellence, workforce development, and expanding opportunities that strengthen the Imperial Valley community.