Past Presidents

The Evergreen State College has been served by dedicated public servants as college presidents over the past 49 years.
Photo: Les Purce

Thomas L. “Les” Purce, 2000–2015

In addition to his 16 years as president of Evergreen, Purce served as interim president from 1990 until 1992, and as Executive Vice President from 1992 to 1995. He spent many years in public service, higher education, and private industry. Read more about Les Purce.

Photo: Jane Jervis

Jane L. Jervis, 1992–2000

Photo: Les Purce

Thomas L. “Les” Purce, 1990–1992 (Interim)

Photo: Joseph Olander

Joseph D. Olander, 1985–1990

Photo: Richard Schwartz

Richard N. Schwartz, 1983–1985 (Interim)

Photo: Dan Evans

Daniel J. Evans, 1977–1983

Three-term governor of Washington state prior to becoming Evergreen’s second president, Dan Evans later served as a U.S. Senator. As governor, Evans signed the legislation authorizing the formation of the college. The Library building is named for him. [Evans’ page on Wikipedia]

Photo: Charles McCann

Charles J. McCann, 1968–1977

McCann served as Evergreen’s first president before stepping down to become a member of the faculty. The college’s main plaza is named in his honor. [McCann’s page on Wikipedia]