Sheryle Long helped patients as a critical care nurse in cities such as Los Angeles, established a first responder program at a higher education institution near Miami, earned a law degree, was elected as Butler County’s first female district attorney and, Wednesday, June 17, was appointed to Butler County Community College’s board of trustees.

Butler County commissioners appoint BC3 trustees to six-year terms.

Commissioners Leslie Osche, Kim Geyer and Kevin Boozel voted unanimously Wednesday to select the Renfrew resident to complete the remaining five years of the term of Glenn T. Miller, who at the time of his passing in January was the college’s longest-serving active trustee at nearly 28 years.

“The community college means so much to Butler County and even surrounding counties,” said Osche, commissioners chairwoman. “The college contributes to the community, not only through education, but by building a workforce for the future. So it is really important to have trustees who bring experience, knowledge and commitment to the table.

“It takes folks who have built a life of service and who have a vast understanding of so many different topics. This is perhaps the most critical of all the board appointments that the commissioners make.”

Long, a native of Dothan, Ala., was raised in South Florida. She attended East Los Angeles College in Monterey Park, Calif., earned an associate degree in registered nursing and later worked in emergency rooms in Los Angeles and Fort Lauderdale, Fla. Long attained a bachelor’s degree in registered nursing from Florida International University in Miami. She became interested in “the interface of law and healthcare,” achieved a law degree from what is now Nova Southeastern University in Fort Lauderdale and later created an emergency medical technician and paramedic program at nearby Broward College.

She moved to Butler County in the late 1980s, cofounded the law firm of Schenck and Long, and served as district attorney from 1992-1995.

Former Gov. Tom Ridge in 2000 appointed Long as a trustee at what was then Clarion University of Pennsylvania, a role she served for two years.

“Sheryle brings a unique combination of legal expertise, leadership experience and public service to our board,” said Megan M. Coval, BC3 president. “As an attorney, former district attorney and former university trustee, she understands both the responsibilities of governance and the importance of serving the public good.

“Her experience navigating complex issues, building consensus and thinking strategically will be a tremendous asset to her fellow trustees and to the college. Just as importantly, she brings a forward-thinking perspective and a strong belief in the mission of BC3 that will help us continue creating opportunities for students and strengthening our communities.”

Long said, “BC3 is important to me because it provides a means for anyone, at any age, to continue their education, and to go on for advanced degrees or to go into the workforce with a technical degree.

“There is so much the community can do with BC3. It is a community-driven institution in that people of all ages can find something that fits their needs in terms of education or relationships.”

Long’s selection was announced Wednesday at the monthly trustees’ meeting at BC3 @ Armstrong in Ford City.

Bill Foley is coordinator of news and media content at Butler County Community College.