MCC President Dr. Johnette McKown Announces Retirement After 37 Years of Service
McKown, who has served as president since 2009, will retire May 31, 2027
August 18, 2026
McLennan Community College President Dr. Johnette McKown has announced her plans to retire effective May 31, 2027, concluding 37 years of service and leadership marked by significant growth, strategic evolution and a steadfast focus on student success.
McKown, the third president in McLennan Community College’s history, joined MCC in 1989 as vice president of Business Services and later served as executive vice president before becoming president in September 2009. Prior to joining MCC, McKown served in roles at Paris Junior College, Vernon College and the University of North Texas. Over the course of her more than five decades in higher education, McKown also served in a variety of roles, including institutional researcher, human resources director, business officer, educator and grants leader.
“It has been the privilege of a lifetime to serve as president of McLennan Community College,” McKown said. “I am deeply proud of what our team has accomplished together and of the strong foundation we have built for the future.”
McKown will continue leading the College through May 31, 2027, as the Board conducts its search for MCC’s next president.
Throughout her tenure, McKown has focused on expanding opportunities and support for students while strengthening the College’s academic programs, facilities and partnerships.
Among the initiatives established during her leadership, she is especially proud of the Honors College, Success Coaching Services and support services such as Paulanne’s Pantry, CREW (Campus Resources & Education Website), free transportation for students, the Follett Merit Scholarship Program and the Stephen and Stuart McKown Emergency Fund, which helps students facing unexpected expenses.
McKown also championed the development and expansion of academic and workforce programs designed to meet the evolving needs of students and the community, including programs in dental assisting, fiber optics, occupational therapy and veterinary technology, as well as certified nursing assistance, patient care and pharmacy technology. She expanded dual credit opportunities and strengthened relationships with area schools and industry partners, creating new opportunities for students while helping MCC respond to the workforce needs of the region. She also strengthened the University Center, providing more opportunities for MCC students to pursue bachelor’s and advanced degrees through partnerships with four-year universities.
Throughout her career at MCC, McKown played a significant role in the growth and improvement of the College’s facilities and infrastructure. She was instrumental in bond projects that resulted in the Science Building, Emergency Services Education Center, Michaelis Academic Center and Health Simulation Lab, as well as the transformation of the Library into the Learning Technology Center and numerous improvements at the Community Services Center and throughout campus. These investments have helped create learning environments that reflect MCC’s commitment to students today while preparing the College for the future.
A lifelong educator, McKown has remained connected to the classroom, serving for 10 years as an adjunct professor in Baylor University’s Scholars of Practice program and teaching developmental English and success courses at MCC. She has been active at the state level with higher education organizations and has built strong relationships throughout the community through board service, partnerships, volunteer service, advocacy and enthusiastic support of MCC’s fine arts and athletics programs.
“Dr. McKown has provided exceptional leadership marked by unwavering integrity, a deep commitment to our students and a clear strategic vision,” said Earl Stinnett, chair of the MCC Board of Trustees. “She is a true servant leader, and her legacy will be defined by her tireless advocacy for students and their success. We are profoundly grateful for her service to MCC and the Waco community, and for the lasting impact she has made on this institution. While Dr. McKown will be greatly missed, we are confident in the strength of MCC’s leadership team and the College’s ability to continue moving forward. We wish her nothing but the best in her next chapter.”
“MCC is well-positioned for the future,” McKown said. “I have tremendous confidence in our faculty, staff and leadership team, and I am excited about the opportunities ahead for this College and the students we serve.”
The MCC Board of Trustees will initiate a comprehensive search process to identify the College’s next president and expects to name a new president during the spring 2027 semester. Additional information about the search and opportunities for stakeholder input will be shared as the process progresses.
For more about Dr. McKown’s career and leadership, visit mclennan.edu/president.