Dr. David Sam: “The Optimist”

Growing up in Ghana, Dr. Sam always had a passion for learning.

With deep admiration for those who have shaped the college over its 75-year history, Dr. Sam says, "It's an outstanding institution with valuable resources and a rich history upon which we can build." Dr. Sam, who led many of the College’s most transformative initiatives, played a key role in securing approval for a $178 million capital referendum in 2009. This significant achievement laid the groundwork for a decade of campus modernization—expanding facilities, upgrading instructional spaces, and creating a truly cutting-edge, state-of-the-art learning environment that continues to serve students, faculty, and the community.

Beyond physical upgrades, Dr. Sam’s tenure has been marked by exceptional financial leadership and long-term strategic planning. Under his guidance, ECC has achieved and maintained a level of fiscal stability widely recognized in the higher education sector. The College has held a prestigious AAA rating from Moody’s Investor Services since 2009 and an AA+ rating from Standard & Poor’s since 2010—distinctions awarded to only a small number of community colleges nationwide. These ratings reflect not only the institution’s strong financial health but also its disciplined budgeting, responsible stewardship of public funds, and unwavering commitment to student success and institutional excellence.

Dr. Sam’s leadership has positioned ECC as a model for effective governance, financial accountability, and community engagement, ensuring that the College remains a trusted educational resource for District 509 and a forward-looking institution prepared to meet the needs of future generations.