Lake Washington Institute of Technology (LWTech) has hired Dr. Elliot Stern to be the new vice president of instruction and Dr. Suzanne Ames as dean of design, IT and Baccalaureate Development.

“We are pleased to welcome these two distinguished professionals to the college. Their wealth of experience in higher education, as well as successful leadership roles, will contribute to the success of LWTech, and ultimately, to the success of our students,” said LWTech President Dr. Amy Goings.

As the vice president of instruction, Stern will oversee all instructional divisions at LWTech, which include more than 40 diverse programs ranging from early childhood education, computer technology, health, culinary and baking arts, gaming, continuing education and high school programs. He comes to LWTech from Edmonds Community College where he was Dean of Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) since 2013. Stern’s higher education experience also includes 10 years at Everett Community College where he served as Dean of Allied Health as well as a tenured faculty member. He holds a medical degree from Michigan State University and a law degree from University of Michigan.

As the Dean of Design, IT and Baccalaureate Development, Ames will provide instructional leadership to the following programs: Computer Security and Network Technician, Multimedia Design and Production, Digital Gaming and Media, Information Technology Application Development and Engineering Graphics. She comes to LWTech from Skagit Valley College where she served as Director of Institutional Planning and Effectiveness. Ames has 15 years of experience working in higher education in director and vice president roles, including creating the first Advancement Office for Pierce College. She earned a doctorate in educational leadership from Fielding Graduate University.