Tony Ichsan’s APPA Journey

Sept. 28, 2020

With over 30 years of higher education experience in California, Oregon and Washington, Tony Ichsan has enjoyed a wide variety of responsibilities at various higher education institutions including independent (private) residential colleges, community colleges and a public research university. As an educational facility professional, PCAPPA and APPA have played an integral part of his journey.

Early on, Tony was fortunate to have had the support and encouragement of his then Director to attend PCAPPA local meetings and annual conferences. Soon came forays into regional engagements, and hosting an annual PCAPPA conference which led to his participation in APPA’s international conferences and contributions as researcher, author, faculty, conference presenter, and subject matter expert. Over the years, he reviewed and supported the launching of key initiatives: Credentialing, Emerging Professional, Sustainability, Code Advocacy, Awards for Excellence, and Community College Engagement. Tony credits this long-term APPA partnership for its direct benefit to his institutions and facilities teams by providing essential resources to implement best practices and continuous improvement.

Having had several great PCAPPA and APPA mentors along the way, Tony has always been excited and willing to give back to his colleagues by “paying it forward”, and this engagement resulted in many appointments and nominations:

PCAPPA
• Various committees/task forces
• Board positions such as
      o Awards and Recognition
      o Professional Affairs
      o Secretary
      o President
APPA
• Various committees/task forces
• Board positions such as
      o Junior Regional Representative
      o Senior Regional Representative
      o Executive Board — Chair of the Senior Regional Representative

Tony is extremely honored to have been recognized by his colleagues for his tireless contributions, and he is proud to have been chosen to receive the highest individual awards in both PCAPPA (Distinguished Leadership Award), and APPA (Meritorious Service Award), as well as this year’s APPA President’s
Award.

Currently the Director of Facilities at Whitman College in Walla Walla, Washington, Tony is still enjoying higher education and having a good time working in Facilities. Responsible for the College’s built and natural environment, his portfolio includes programs such as: planning/design/construction, operations (maintenance/grounds/custodial), sustainability, environmental health and safety, energy management,
conference/events/scheduling.

As a life-long learner, Tony continues to expand his knowledge by engaging with other educational facilities professionals and pays it forward by mentoring and supporting the development of future facilities leaders.