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NCCC to find new president

Thu, Apr 27th 2017 05:10 pm

Staff reports

The Niagara County Community College Board of Trustees is looking for a new leader after former president James P. Klyczek resigned on Wednesday. His departure follows reports he made unfavorable comments about a woman who stated she was sexually assaulted on campus last year.

In tape obtained by WKBW-TV Channel 7, Klyczek reportedly stated, in regard to the sexual assault victim, "What is she stupid? I mean, no, seriously. This just aggravates me. Make us the guilty party because you're too stupid to follow your instinct."

He reportedly further referred to her as "dumber than a doorknob."

In addition, Klyczek is being investigated after emails acquired by Channel 7 last month suggested he may have rigged the bid process for a designer and contractor of the Niagara Falls Culinary Institute.

Klyczek gave notice of his resignation hours before the NCCC board was to meet. Chairman Vincent R. Ginestre sent out a notice that called for a special meeting to discuss "personnel matters."

In a statement, Ginestre said the board scheduled the meeting to vote on Klyczek's removal as president.

"Although he finalized his retirement just hours before the vote, the Board wants to clearly state that Dr. Klyczek's reported words and actions have been inappropriate, insensitive and inconsistent with the values of our college."

Ginestre said the board will initiate a search for an interim president, and then a comprehensive search will begin for a "permanent selection."

In the meantime, NCCC Vice President of Academic Affairs Luba Chliwniak will take over as "officer in charge."

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