A new director for the Greater Altoona Career and Technology Center has been chosen to replace 20-year director Lanny Ross, who is retiring March 31.

Greater Altoona Career and Technolology Center Assistant Director Donna Miller was unanimously appointed by 15 members of the committee during a Jan. 6 meeting.

Miller’s employment as director begins April 1 at a salary of $110,000.

She has a doctorate in workforce education and development.

For high school students and adults seeking a new skill, she said Blair County is “privileged to have an educational facility like this … giving some people a second chance and some people a first chance” at a career.

Reached in her office for a phone conversation, Miller said she plans “to continue the vision of the school, which is to provide quality educational programs and services.”

“I’ve worked side by side with (Ross) for 20 years,” she said. “He is always ready to forge ahead with something to improve what we do here. I’ve learned from him to always be looking to the future.”

Ross said the committee asked for his input on potential candidates to replace him, and “I certainly recommended Dr. Miller,” he said.

Miller’s employment as director is not set to expire by a contracted date.

GACTC business manager Danielle Mehalick is one of those, in addition to Miller, who Ross said would be fit for the position of director.

“Both women perform at a high level,” he said. “That shows in the school’s results.”

Mehalick is not certified to be a career and technology center director, but she may pursue further education and be reimbursed by the GACTC for 75 percent of the cost, which is common of school employment contracts, Ross said.

Mirror Staff Writer Russ O’Reilly is at 946-7435.