“He has always been passionate about NMC’s mission and about expanding the educational opportunities for the people of the CNM,” King said.
Cepeda, as board chairman, helped lead the college through one of its most difficult periods following the announcement of NMC’s first show-cause, she said.
“His leadership steered the college to full accreditation reaffirmation, and I have learned a great deal from his guidance and direction,” King added.
Cepeda submitted his resignation letter to Gov. Benigno R. Fitial on Friday.
The governor’s office received it at 1:24 p.m., exactly two hours before the board held its regular meeting.
In his resignation letter, Cepeda said: “As much as I am passionate in assisting Northern Marianas College and our students, my expanded work responsibility in Palau and Majuro prevents me from participating in board of regents meetings as schedule.”
He is the general manager of Pacific Trading Co.
King said Cepeda also “deserves a great deal of credit for ensuring that the college’s fundraising activities always exceeded revenue expectations.”
She said the board thanks Cepeda for his dedication and commitment to the college over the past several years.
The board was scheduled to elect new officers on Friday, but it was suspended after a lengthy discussion.
The regents wanted all members to be present when they elect the new officers.
Besides Cepeda, Regent Maria T. Peter was also absent.
The two and Regent Elaine Hocog-Orilla comprised the board’s de facto minority bloc.
The meeting on Friday was recessed after more than four hours of discussions. It will be resumed on Friday, July 23, at 3 p.m.
“The board members will elect a chair we can all support,” King said.
“We all share the concern that was pointed out by the report that the board is divided, and we all recognize that although disagreements are normal and even healthy at times, factions and personal divisions are counterproductive and, as we can see, have hurt NMC,” she said.
King said she will serve if reelected, but she will also vote for a chair the board members will all support.
The other regents are Andrew Orsini, Frank Rabauliman and Paz C. Younis.
