Carleton College Executive and Leadership Team

Steven Poskanzer, the President Emeritus and Professor of Political Science at Carleton College, contributes deep institutional knowledge and academic expertise to the college's long-term strategic vision. Poskanzer teaches advanced political science courses, engaging students in critical discourse regarding governance and public policy. By overseeing specific academic research projects, the President Emeritus provides mentorship to students and faculty, reinforcing the college's reputation for intellectual rigor. This leadership role involves advising current administration on historical context and institutional values, ensuring continuity in the college's mission. Steven Poskanzer also represents the institution in various academic forums, promoting the value of a liberal arts education to a national audience. Through the integration of scholarly research and administrative wisdom, Poskanzer supports the college's commitment to fostering a vibrant, inclusive environment that prepares graduates for impactful careers and civic engagement.

Clara Kappelman, the President at Carleton College, directs the overall strategic vision and operational success of the institution. Kappelman manages relationships with the Board of Trustees, alumni, and donors to secure the financial resources necessary for academic expansion and campus development. By overseeing the implementation of the college's 54 majors and minors, the President ensures that the curriculum remains relevant and intellectually challenging. This leadership role involves championing the college's commitment to affordability and financial aid, ensuring that high-achieving students from diverse backgrounds can access a premier education. Clara Kappelman also drives initiatives to strengthen the alumni network, facilitating robust post-graduate support and high employment rates for graduates. Through the coordination of senior leadership teams, Kappelman maintains the college's status as a leader in liberal arts education, fostering an environment where teaching and community remain the primary focus.

Susan Hammel, the Careers Advisory Board President at Carleton College, leads the strategic alignment between academic preparation and professional success for the student body. Hammel manages the advisory board's efforts to connect students with industry leaders, internships, and career development opportunities. By overseeing the expansion of professional networks, the Careers Advisory Board President ensures that students benefit from the college's strong alumni connections and robust post-graduate support systems. This leadership role involves identifying emerging market trends and integrating these insights into career counseling services to improve employment outcomes. Susan Hammel also collaborates with faculty to bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-world application, enhancing the overall value of the liberal arts degree. Through the development of strategic partnerships with employers across the country, Hammel drives the college's mission to prepare graduates for successful and meaningful professional lives.

Cynthia Shearer, the Chief Information Officer at Carleton College, directs the digital infrastructure and technological strategy supporting the institution's academic mission. Shearer manages the integration of advanced computing resources across campus, ensuring faculty and students possess the tools necessary for rigorous research and collaborative learning. By overseeing cybersecurity protocols and data management systems, the Chief Information Officer protects sensitive institutional information while facilitating seamless access to digital archives. This leadership role involves modernizing classroom technology to enhance pedagogical outcomes across the liberal arts curriculum. Cynthia Shearer also coordinates with academic departments to implement software solutions that streamline administrative workflows and improve operational efficiency. Through the deployment of robust network architecture, Shearer supports the college's commitment to innovation, ensuring that technological capabilities remain aligned with the evolving needs of a prestigious private liberal arts environment.

Kerstin de Cardenas, the Director, Human Resources & Chief Human Resources Officer at Carleton College, architects the talent acquisition and organizational development strategies essential for maintaining a high-caliber faculty and staff. De Cardenas manages comprehensive benefits programs, professional development initiatives, and workplace culture policies that sustain the college's close-knit community. By overseeing recruitment efforts, the Chief Human Resources Officer ensures the attraction of diverse, world-class talent to the Northfield campus. This leadership role involves navigating complex labor regulations and fostering an inclusive environment that supports employee well-being and long-term retention. Kerstin de Cardenas also collaborates with senior leadership to align human capital strategies with the broader institutional goals of academic excellence. Through the implementation of equitable compensation structures and performance management systems, de Cardenas drives organizational health and operational stability across all departments.

Kerstin Cardenas, the Director, Human Resources & Chief Human Resources Officer at Carleton College, executes strategic workforce planning and internal policy frameworks to optimize institutional performance. Cardenas manages employee relations, conflict resolution, and compliance training, ensuring that the college maintains a supportive and productive professional atmosphere. By overseeing the administration of payroll and personnel records, the Director, Human Resources & Chief Human Resources Officer maintains the integrity of internal operations. This leadership role involves designing wellness programs and engagement initiatives that reflect the college's values of community and mutual respect. Kerstin Cardenas also partners with department heads to identify staffing needs and implement training modules that enhance the professional capabilities of the workforce. Through the continuous refinement of human resource processes, Cardenas supports the college's mission by ensuring that the staff remains fully equipped to facilitate an unmatched teaching experience.