The City of Lakewood’s assistant city manager of finance and administration will become the next vice president for administrative services at Pierce College.
Choi Halladay, 44, will begin his new job on June 17. In Lakewood, Halladay oversees finance, human resources and other general services for a municipal government with a $90 million annual budget.
He earlier worked in several positions at Wenatchee Valley College, including vice president of administration, director of technology and tenured mathematics instructor.
Choi said he’s been impressed with Pierce College’s outreach to military members, and its partnerships with employers and other educational institutions to provide relevant, up-to-date education.
“I have been drawn to community colleges because they are institutions that prioritize accessibility and availability of education to all students,” Halladay said. “It’s the democratization of knowledge at its best.”
Halladay holds a master’s degree in economics from the University of Iowa and a bachelor’s degree in economics, with a minor in mathematics, from the University of Puget Sound. He grew up in Tacoma from the age of 6, and graduated from Stadium High School.
Halladay is a proven administrator and leader with a diverse set of skills in budget and finance, contract negotiations, risk management and other administrative services, said Pierce College District Chancellor and CEO Michele L. Johnson.
“He is described as a clear and analytical thinker, naturally curious and extremely knowledgeable, with the ability to engage individuals in creative problem solving around complex issues,” Johnson said.
“In addition, Choi is personable, has a good sense of humor and enjoys collaborating with others to get things done. He will be a wonderful addition to the Pierce College family.”
