Lane transplant takes over from Maas in Admission

Coming from Lane Community College in Eugene, John Hamblin has taken over as the new manager of admissions, registration and records.

Hamblin replaces Peggy Maas, who retired last summer after 30 years of working for MHCC

At Lane Community College, Hamblin was the director of student enrollment. Hamblin said he enjoyed his time at Lane, adding that he cherishes the experience he gained there and believes it will complement his work at MHCC. He said he will miss the friendships and bonds he made at Lane but plans to make many new ones at MHCC. Hamblin said he has felt very welcomed and supported.

Hamblin said that given the great success the college has had in its history around student success, it was an obvious fit for him.

“Personally and professionally, Mt. Hood Community College feels like a great place where great things can happen. I am excited for this year and the future here at the college,” said Hamblin.

He has been a peer of Maas for the past few years and looked at her as a very successful registrar and viewed her and her work with high regard.

Hamblin said the transition from Eugene to Gresham has been great. He moved to Gresham with his wife, Katie, and his two-year-old son, JJ.

He said they sold their house in Eugene fairly quickly, and besides occasionally getting lost in their new surroundings, they are excited to be here and feel they are settling in comfortably.

Hamblin is a regular bike commuter. He drove to work on his first day, which he says was weird, but has rode his bike to Mt. Hood every day since.

Hamblin’s duties as manager of admissions, registrations, and records include management of staff and processes around these areas. He was very enthusiastic about his new position, adding that student services is where he found his true passion.

Hamblin said he has worked very hard to get where he is and attributes much of his success to the help he has received along the way.

“I value stories and student experiences and I have had and value my own,” said Hamblin. He said he believes he is embarking on his greatest work and is excited for what he and the college can achieve together.