Rabab Fares, associate vice president of marketing and external affairs at EPCC, officially resigned from the college on Jan. 31.
On Jan. 29, about 35 of Fares’ colleagues celebrated her retirement luncheon at Gabriel’s Café.
Among them was the president of the college, Dr. Richard Rhodes. 
“She has been a tremendous asset to the college. She has done an amazing job with marketing,” Rhodes said.
“I can’t compliment her enough for what she has done.”
During the nearly 28 years at EPCC, Fares has established herself highly among many of her colleagues.
“With her positive ideas within the college forefront, she [Fares] dedicated her work on improving the image of the college,” said Javier Sanchez, coordinator for the public relations department.
Her position involved enhancing EPCC’s image as well as keeping the community aware of opportunities available through the college.
However, Fares struggled to maintain her own positive image while employed at EPCC.
On Oct. 9, 2001, Fares was arrested and eventually convicted for the theft of a $179 two-piece dress suit from the Dillard’s department store at the Sunland Park Mall.
Soon after withdrawing her final appeal on Oct. 3, 2007, Fares decided to take a leave of absence and eventually turned in her resignation.
When asked about the details surrounding her resignation, Fares refused to elaborate.
“I prefer not to comment,” she said. “I do not want to answer any questions.”
Rhodes had an explanation for why Fares was leaving.
“She resigned basically for family medical issues,” he said.
Dr. Ernst Roberts, executive assistance to the president, has overseen the duties of Fares’ position in her absence, and will continue to do so until the position is filled.
When asked about Fares’ successor, Rhodes said the Marketing position will be advertised so that there will be an open competition.
“I hope the new person continues with the marketing master plan, to be a leader with new entrepreneurial ideas and to collaborate with community members,” said Rhodes.
According to Nancy Nelson, associate vice president of employee relations, Fares was initially hired on a part-time basis in December of 1979. She was then promoted to a full-time status in 1981.
“I think she did a wonderful job,” said Souraya Hajjar, health grant manager.
“She put EPCC on the map.”
