Overview:
Palau Community College will remain under the leadership of Dr. Patrick U. Tellei for another two years. The PCC Board of Trustees has extended his tenure through April 2029 after conducting a search for the college president and holding discussions with Tellei about continuing his leadership.
By: L.N. Reklai
KOROR, Palau (September 10, 2026) — Palau Community College will continue under the leadership of President Dr. Patrick U. Tellei for another two years, with the college’s Board of Trustees extending his tenure through April 2029.
The board announced that it has entered into an agreement with Tellei to continue leading the college, saying the decision will provide stability and continuity for Palau’s only institution of higher education.
The extension follows a presidential search conducted by the Board of Trustees while it also held discussions with Tellei about the future of his tenure.
After considering both processes, the board and Tellei mutually agreed to continue their partnership, according to the announcement.
“The Board is deeply appreciative of Dr. Tellei’s steadfast leadership and dedication to the mission of Palau Community College,” said Alvina R. Timarong, chairperson of the PCC Board of Trustees.
“This extension allows us to maintain momentum in advancing academic excellence while preparing for a smooth transition of leadership in 2029,” Timarong said.
Tellei said he was grateful for the opportunity to continue serving the college and the people of Palau.
“It is an honor to serve PCC and the people of Palau,” Tellei said. “I look forward to working with the Board, faculty, staff, and students to continue to strengthen our institution and ensure a successful future for higher education in Palau.”
The board’s decision comes after it had solicited expressions of interest for the position of PCC president as part of its presidential search.
The extension means Tellei will remain at the helm as PCC moves forward with its academic and institutional priorities, while the board prepares for a leadership transition in 2029.
The board said the decision reaffirms PCC’s commitment to providing quality education and creating opportunities for the people of Palau, while allowing the college to plan for a thoughtful and seamless future leadership transition.
PCC is an accessible comprehensive public educational institution serving the technical, academic, cultural, social and economic needs of students and communities in Palau.