Chancellor Takes On Interim President Job

Robert A. Lombardi, chancellor of Saddleback Community College District, did not have to look far for somebody to serve as interim president of Irvine Valley College: He’ll do the job himself.

Lombardi, who is paid $145,000 a year, will assume the additional post April 1 with the departure of Daniel Larios, who is leaving to become president of Fresno City College in his hometown.

Lombardi will not receive any extra compensation, district spokeswoman Diane Riopka said. The chancellor initiated the idea as a way to save money, she said, adding that Lombardi expects Larios’ permanent successor to be appointed as soon as midsummer.

The district’s board of trustees approved the move Monday night on a 5-1 vote, with David B. Lang objecting and Joan J. Hueter abstaining. They could not be reached for comment, and Riopka said she did not know their reasons.