The Lone Star College System board of trustees named Rebecca Riley the lone finalist April 29 in its search to find the next president of its Montgomery campus. Former LSC-Montgomery President Austin Lane left the position in December after being promoted to executive vice chancellor at LSCS.

Riley, who served as interim president since January, officially takes over as president May 1.

"LSC-Montgomery has such a rich tradition of not only helping students succeed, but of being an integral part of the community," Riley said. "I am excited to have been chosen to continue that tradition and look forward to working with the talented faculty and staff."

Riley's selection comes after a three-month nationwide search that eventually yielded three candidates. The three finalists met with students, faculty and community leaders at several forums throughout April.

Riley, who previously served as vice president of instruction at LSC-Kingwood before taking over as interim president at Montgomery, was identified by Chancellor Steve Head as a candidate who understands Lone Star College and its fundamental goals.

"Dr. Riley stood out with her unique combination of creativity and analytical ability," Head said. "She is an excellent communicator who values and practices transparency, inclusion and collaboration."