“It carries a lot of responsibilities because I have to think about the students and all the employees,” she said.
Cabrera, who has been with NMC for 15 years and is the director of the Adult Basic Education program, said she is making sure that the responsibilities delegated to her by the board of regents are fulfilled.
As interim president, she said she follows the board’s instructions, including gathering information and setting up meetings.
She refused to comment about her role in the ongoing investigation of suspended NMC President Carmen Fernandez.
“I don’t really have lots of information regarding that yet,” Cabrera said.
When asked about her plans for the college, Cabrera said she is hoping to return to the Adult Basic Education program.
Regarding the former instructors of the college, who either left or whose contracts were not renewed, Cabrera said they are free to submit their applications.
“If there’s a position open and they are interested in applying then, like all applicants, they are free to submit an application. We don’t discriminate,” she said.
As of yesterday, Cabrera said she was not informed of any application from former instructors who wanted to work again for the college.
“The semester already started,” she noted.
Regarding Samuel McPhetres’ contract, which was not renewed by Fernandez, Cabrera said the NMC legal counsel is reviewing it.
The termination of NMC’s most respected instructor triggered a wave of criticism that culminated in the board’s decision to suspend Fernandez.
On Thursday, the regents will meet again to discuss personnel matters.
Cabrera said the board is only trying to make sure that “due diligence” is observed, adding that the regents are responsible for the overall welfare of the college.
“If [Fernandez or anyone else] is accused of something we need to investigate. If I am accused of something I will make sure that it’s a valid accusation,” she said.
When asked if she wants to see Fernandez reinstated, Cabrera replied: “That’s not for me to decide.”
She added, “It is an important decision whether or not to reinstate” Fernandez.
Cabrera said she is confident that whatever decision the board makes will be best for NMC.
When asked about the leadership of Fernandez, Cabrera said she was not directly involved with management issues.
“That’s a very personal question. I’m not comfortable answering it. But as long as our goals and missions are realized then I’m happy,” Cabrera said.
In the meantime, she said the board can either allow her to remain as interim president or assign another person.
But as long as the board and the college need her, Cabrera said she will continue serving NMC.
