Aims Community College Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

Aims Community College has 10 executives leading key functions including strategy, operations, finance, and institutional effectiveness.

Driven by a commitment to accessible education, Aims Community College provides comprehensive degree and certificate programs across four campuses and online, fostering student success and community development.

Leadership Roles at Aims Community College

  • Chief Executive Officer - Marsi Liddell
  • Chief Executive Officer & President - Leah Bornstein
  • Vice President, Administrative Services & Chief Financial Officer - Chuck Jensen
  • President (Acting & Interim) - Jerry Kiefer
  • President - Paul Thompson
  • Assistant VP, Institutional Effectiveness Planning & Chief Information Officer - Chad Marley
  • Staff Executive - Sandi Ols
  • Team Captain - Manav Chawla
  • Staff Executive - Samantha Hudspeth
  • Staff Executive - Shelly Mendez
  • Marsi Liddell - Chief Executive Officer

    Marsi Liddell, the Chief Executive Officer at Aims Community College, directs the overarching strategic vision and operational execution for the institution. This leadership role involves guiding all academic and administrative departments to ensure the delivery of high-quality education and student support services. Marsi Liddell oversees the development and implementation of institutional policies, fostering an environment of continuous improvement and innovation. The Chief Executive Officer ensures alignment with the college's mission to provide accessible and effective learning opportunities across its campuses and online platforms. This position requires extensive collaboration with faculty, staff, and external stakeholders to advance the college's goals and enhance its impact within the community. The Chief Executive Officer drives initiatives that support student retention, graduation rates, and workforce readiness, directly contributing to the economic and social well-being of the region.

    Leah Bornstein - Chief Executive Officer & President

    Leah Bornstein, the Chief Executive Officer & President at Aims Community College, spearheads the institution's strategic direction and overall leadership. This dual role encompasses setting the vision for academic excellence, operational efficiency, and community engagement across all Aims Community College locations. Leah Bornstein drives initiatives focused on expanding program offerings, enhancing student success metrics, and strengthening the college's financial health. The Chief Executive Officer & President collaborates closely with the Board of Trustees, faculty, and staff to ensure the college remains responsive to evolving educational needs and market demands. This leadership position involves championing innovation in teaching and learning, fostering a culture of inclusivity, and promoting the college's mission of providing accessible, high-quality education. Leah Bornstein's oversight extends to all facets of institutional management, ensuring robust governance and sustainable growth for Aims Community College.

    Chuck Jensen - Vice President, Administrative Services & Chief Financial Officer

    Chuck Jensen, the Vice President, Administrative Services & Chief Financial Officer at Aims Community College, directs the financial operations and administrative functions of the institution. This comprehensive role involves managing the college's budget, financial planning, accounting, and procurement processes to ensure fiscal responsibility and sustainability. Chuck Jensen oversees key administrative departments, including human resources, facilities management, and campus safety, ensuring efficient operations and a supportive environment for students and staff. The Vice President, Administrative Services & Chief Financial Officer plays a pivotal role in developing financial strategies that support the college's long-term objectives and growth initiatives. This leadership position requires meticulous oversight of financial reporting, compliance with regulatory requirements, and the optimization of institutional resources. Chuck Jensen's expertise ensures the financial integrity and operational stability of Aims Community College.

    Jerry Kiefer - President (Acting & Interim)

    Jerry Kiefer, the President (Acting & Interim) at Aims Community College, provides essential leadership during transitional periods, ensuring continuity of operations and strategic focus. This role involves guiding the institution through critical junctures, maintaining momentum on key initiatives, and upholding the college's commitment to its students and community. Jerry Kiefer oversees all aspects of college administration and academic affairs, working closely with faculty, staff, and the Board of Trustees. The President (Acting & Interim) ensures that Aims Community College continues to deliver on its mission of providing accessible and quality education. This leadership position requires a deep understanding of the higher education landscape and a steady hand in navigating complex challenges. Jerry Kiefer's dedication ensures the college remains focused on its core objectives during this interim period.

    Paul Thompson - President

    Paul Thompson, the President at Aims Community College, provides visionary leadership and strategic direction for the entire institution. This role encompasses setting the academic and operational agenda, fostering a culture of innovation, and ensuring the college's responsiveness to the needs of students and the community. Paul Thompson oversees all major divisions, including academic affairs, student services, and administrative operations, driving initiatives that enhance educational quality and student success. The President works closely with the Board of Trustees, faculty, and staff to advance the college's mission and long-term strategic goals. This leadership position involves championing the college's commitment to accessibility, affordability, and workforce development. Paul Thompson's guidance ensures Aims Community College remains a leader in higher education, adapting to evolving challenges and opportunities.

    Chad Marley - Assistant VP, Institutional Effectiveness Planning & Chief Information Officer

    Chad Marley, the Assistant VP, Institutional Effectiveness Planning & Chief Information Officer at Aims Community College, manages the strategic integration of technology and data-driven planning. This critical role ensures that institutional effectiveness initiatives are supported by robust information systems and analytical insights. Chad Marley oversees the college's technology infrastructure, cybersecurity, and digital learning platforms, driving innovation to enhance educational delivery and administrative processes. The Assistant VP, Institutional Effectiveness Planning & Chief Information Officer leads efforts in strategic planning, program review, and accreditation compliance, utilizing data to inform decision-making and resource allocation. This position requires close collaboration with academic and administrative departments to align technology solutions with institutional goals. Chad Marley's leadership ensures that Aims Community College leverages information resources effectively to support student success and operational efficiency.

    Sandi Ols - Staff Executive

    Sandi Ols, the Staff Executive at Aims Community College, provides high-level support and strategic coordination across various institutional initiatives. This role involves managing key projects, facilitating communication between departments, and ensuring the smooth execution of administrative functions. Sandi Ols contributes to the operational efficiency of the college by streamlining processes and supporting leadership in decision-making. The Staff Executive often acts as a liaison, connecting different teams and stakeholders to foster collaboration and achieve common goals. This position requires a broad understanding of the college's operations and a proactive approach to problem-solving. Sandi Ols's contributions are vital in advancing the strategic priorities of Aims Community College and ensuring effective resource utilization.

    Manav Chawla - Team Captain

    Manav Chawla, the Team Captain at Aims Community College, leads a specific functional unit, driving performance and coordinating efforts within the team. This role involves setting objectives, motivating team members, and ensuring the successful completion of assigned tasks and projects. Manav Chawla fosters a collaborative environment, encouraging skill development and effective communication among team members. The Team Captain plays a crucial part in achieving departmental goals by optimizing workflow and resource allocation. This position requires strong leadership qualities and a clear understanding of the team's contribution to the broader institutional mission. Manav Chawla's guidance ensures the team operates efficiently and effectively, supporting the overall success of Aims Community College.

    Samantha Hudspeth - Staff Executive

    Samantha Hudspeth, the Staff Executive at Aims Community College, provides critical support and strategic oversight for key institutional projects and administrative functions. This position involves coordinating complex initiatives, facilitating interdepartmental collaboration, and ensuring the efficient implementation of college policies. Samantha Hudspeth contributes to operational excellence by managing resources effectively and identifying opportunities for process improvement. The Staff Executive serves as a key point of contact for various stakeholders, ensuring clear communication and alignment with institutional objectives. This role demands a comprehensive understanding of the college's strategic priorities and the ability to translate them into actionable plans. Samantha Hudspeth's efforts are instrumental in advancing the mission and goals of Aims Community College.

    Shelly Mendez - Staff Executive

    Shelly Mendez, the Staff Executive at Aims Community College, offers comprehensive support and strategic coordination for critical institutional operations. This role involves managing diverse projects, facilitating cross-functional communication, and ensuring the effective execution of administrative directives. Shelly Mendez enhances operational efficiency by streamlining workflows and supporting leadership in strategic planning and implementation. The Staff Executive acts as a vital link between various departments, promoting synergy and alignment with the college's overarching mission. This position requires a thorough grasp of Aims Community College's strategic objectives and the ability to drive initiatives forward. Shelly Mendez's contributions are essential for the successful advancement of the college's educational and community-focused goals.

    Explore Leadership Teams in Colleges & Universities

    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Aims Community College Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Aims Community College?
    Aims Community College is led by Marsi Liddell (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Leah Bornstein (Chief Executive Officer & President) and Chuck Jensen (Vice President, Administrative Services & Chief Financial Officer).
    Who is part of Aims Community College’s executive team?
    The executive team of Aims Community College includes leaders such as Marsi Liddell (Chief Executive Officer), Leah Bornstein (Chief Executive Officer & President), Chuck Jensen (Vice President, Administrative Services & Chief Financial Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Aims Community College have?
    Aims Community College has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Aims Community College’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Aims Community College includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Chief Executive Officer & President, Vice President, Administrative Services & Chief Financial Officer, President (Acting & Interim), President.