After nearly a decade of leadership at KC, Dr. Kays reflects on her career, achievements, and the college community she calls “extraordinary.
At the September meeting of the Kilgore College Board of Trustees, Board President Josh Edmonson read aloud a heartfelt letter from Dr. Brenda S. Kays, announcing her intention to retire as president of Kilgore College, effective February 28, 2026.
Dr. Kays, who has served as president of KC since 2016, expressed her deep gratitude for the opportunity to lead the institution, calling it “the privilege of a lifetime — serving as your president.” With more than 40 years dedicated to community college students, she reflected on her time at KC as “among the most rewarding and meaningful” of her distinguished career.
“From my very first day on campus, I knew this college was something special,” Dr. Kays wrote. “What makes it extraordinary is not the buildings, projects, or even the record enrollments—though those are impressive accomplishments we can all be proud of. What truly matters are the people.”
Throughout her tenure, Dr. Kays has been a champion for student success, academic innovation, and community engagement. Under her leadership, Kilgore College has launched new and forward-thinking programs, expanded its facilities, strengthened partnerships, and broadened opportunities for the students and communities it serves.
“Together, we have achieved so much: innovative programs, new facilities, new partnerships, and new opportunities,” she said. “But what I will cherish most are the moments that revealed who we are as a college—when students discovered their potential, when teams collaborated to create something better, and when our community looked to us as a trusted partner.”
Dr. Kays emphasized that her work has never been “just a career,” but a calling. She recounted powerful moments that will stay with her long after she steps away from the presidency: commencement ceremonies, the launch of creative new programs, and personal stories of transformation among students, faculty, and staff.
“I carry countless memories with me,” she said, “and these moments remind me that this has always been about more than work—it’s been about purpose.”
While Dr. Kays looks ahead to the next phase of her career, where she plans to focus on broader post-secondary initiatives such as policy, student success, and workforce development, she remains fully committed to Kilgore College in the coming months.
“I will continue to serve with energy and passion, as your president, until February 28, 2026,” she affirmed. “During that time, I remain as committed as ever to supporting you and ensuring a smooth transition.”
As Kilgore College prepares for a leadership transition, Dr. Kays leaves behind a legacy of integrity, vision, and unwavering commitment to students and community. Her deep affection for the college was clear in her closing words:
“I am proud to have been a part of this chapter in the college’s story, and I will always carry a piece of KC in my heart.”