Thomas College Institute

Dr. Robert Whitcomb, Director of Lifelong Learning
Sheldon Jackson College   

Education: B.S. University of Wisconsin-River Falls (Business Administration and Economics) 1981; M.S. Colorado State University (Marketing) 1985; C.A.S. University of Maine (Educational Administration) 1995; Ed. D. University of Maine (Educational Leadership).

Profile: Dr. Whitcomb is the Director of Lifelong Learning at Sheldon Jackson College in Sitka Alaska (2004 to present).  In this role he works with students, businesses, non-profits, and Native Alaskan tribal leaders to develop management and leadership skills to serve the people of Southeast Alaska.  Prior to coming to Alaska (2001-2004), Bob was recruited by the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire to reinvent the University's continuing education operations-focusing on connecting campus and community through regional service and lifelong learning.  Bob is the former Dean of the Graduate School and Vice President for Continuing Education at Thomas College (1992-2001).  While at Thomas, he completed the certification requirements for the Senior Professional in Human Resources designation.

Teaching and Research Focus: Dr. Whitcomb is currently Associate Professor of Business at Sheldon Jackson College.  He has taught in the business programs at the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire, Colby College, Thomas College, Eastern Washington University, University of Maine at Presque Isle, and Northern Maine Technical College.   Bob's consultancy has worked with businesses and non-profits throughout the US.  His areas of academic interest include organizational behavior, leadership, Alaskan village management and development, transition theory, and learnership.