FAIRFIELD (AP) — Kennebec Valley Community College is getting its first new president in three decades.

The board of trustees on Wednesday approved Fulbright scholar and Harvard School of Education graduate Richard Hopper as the school’s new president.

The 49-year-old Hopper is a World Bank education specialist and Westport Island resident.

He told the Kennebec Journal he has provided guidance and advice to governments and higher education institutions around the world during his 13 years with the World Bank.

He said he’s still formulating his goals and acknowledges the school faces challenges in a tough economy.

He takes over officially on April 22 from Barbara Woodlee, who’s retiring after 30 years as president.