Carleton College Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

Carleton College has 10 executives leading key functions including technology, human resources, and student leadership.

Driven by a commitment to academic excellence, Carleton College fosters a close-knit community and offers diverse programs, attracting students nationwide and preparing them for successful futures through a strong alumni network and robust post-graduate support.

Leadership Roles at Carleton College

  • President, Middle & African Club (East, North) - Omar Alsaad
  • Alzheimer's Buddies President - Anka Raicevic
  • Co-President - Coalition of Southeast Asians - Alex Vue
  • President Emeritus and Professor of Political Science - Steven Poskanzer
  • MVMNT Founder and Co-President - Nkauj Yang
  • President - Clara Kappelman
  • Careers Advisory Board President - Susan Hammel
  • Chief Technology Officer - Janet Scannell
  • Director, Human Resources & Chief Human Resources Officer - Kerstin Cardenas
  • Director, Human Resources & Chief Human Resources Officer - Kerstin de Cardenas
  • Omar Alsaad - President, Middle & African Club (East, North)

    Omar Alsaad, the President, Middle & African Club (East, North) at Carleton College, leads student engagement and cultural programming for specific regional clubs. Alsaad spearheads initiatives designed to foster a sense of community and belonging among students from the Middle and African regions, enhancing the vibrant and inclusive environment. This leadership role involves organizing events, facilitating discussions, and promoting cross-cultural understanding within the close-knit campus setting. Omar Alsaad's efforts directly support the college's commitment to attracting students from across the country and enriching their academic and social experiences. The President of the Middle & African Club (East, North) ensures these student organizations thrive, contributing to the diverse tapestry of student life at Carleton College.

    Anka Raicevic - Alzheimer's Buddies President

    Anka Raicevic, the Alzheimer's Buddies President at Carleton College, directs a vital student-led initiative focused on intergenerational connection and support. Raicevic oversees the organization's operations, fostering meaningful relationships between students and individuals affected by Alzheimer's disease, thereby enriching the close-knit community. This leadership position is instrumental in promoting empathy and civic engagement among the student body. Anka Raicevic's dedication supports Carleton College's broader mission of encouraging exploration and community involvement, contributing to a vibrant and inclusive campus culture. The Alzheimer's Buddies President ensures the program's continued impact, reinforcing the college's commitment to social responsibility and student development.

    Alex Vue - Co-President - Coalition of Southeast Asians

    Alex Vue, the Co-President - Coalition of Southeast Asians at Carleton College, leads efforts to support and represent students of Southeast Asian heritage. Vue collaborates with fellow leaders to organize cultural events, promote awareness, and build community, enhancing the vibrant and inclusive environment on campus. This role is crucial for fostering a sense of belonging within the close-knit student body and supporting the college's diverse student population. Alex Vue's leadership contributes to the rich tapestry of student organizations, aligning with Carleton College's commitment to attracting students from across the country and providing robust support systems. The Co-President ensures the coalition effectively serves its members and contributes positively to the college's overall mission.

    Steven Poskanzer - President Emeritus and Professor of Political Science

    Steven Poskanzer, the President Emeritus and Professor of Political Science at Carleton College, continues to contribute to the academic and institutional legacy. Poskanzer's emeritus role signifies sustained engagement with the college's mission, offering guidance and expertise derived from extensive leadership experience. This position allows for continued scholarly contribution and mentorship within the close-knit academic community. Steven Poskanzer's professorial duties involve educating students in political science, fostering critical thinking and engagement with complex societal issues, thereby supporting the college's unmatched teaching. The President Emeritus and Professor of Political Science upholds the institution's commitment to academic rigor and intellectual exploration, enriching the student experience.

    Nkauj Yang - MVMNT Founder and Co-President

    Nkauj Yang, the MVMNT Founder and Co-President at Carleton College, spearheads a student-led initiative focused on empowerment and community building. Yang drives the organization's vision, cultivating a supportive network for students and promoting engagement with campus life. This leadership role is central to fostering a vibrant and inclusive environment, encouraging active participation within the close-knit community. Nkauj Yang's entrepreneurial spirit contributes significantly to the diverse array of student organizations, aligning with Carleton College's commitment to student exploration and development. The Founder and Co-President ensures MVMNT thrives, enhancing the student experience and reinforcing the college's dedication to student success.

    Clara Kappelman - President

    Clara Kappelman, the President at Carleton College, leads a significant student organization, driving its strategic direction and operational effectiveness. Kappelman oversees the organization's activities, fostering collaboration and engagement among its members to achieve its stated objectives. This leadership position is key to cultivating a dynamic student experience and contributing to the vibrant campus atmosphere. Clara Kappelman's efforts support Carleton College's commitment to student leadership development and exploration, enhancing the close-knit community. The President ensures the organization's success, playing a crucial role in the diverse ecosystem of student-led initiatives that enrich the college environment.

    Susan Hammel - Careers Advisory Board President

    Susan Hammel, the Careers Advisory Board President at Carleton College, guides the strategic development of career services and alumni engagement. Hammel collaborates with board members to enhance post-graduate support and opportunities for students, directly impacting their future success. This leadership role is critical in connecting academic pursuits with professional pathways, reinforcing the college's commitment to robust alumni networks. Susan Hammel's oversight ensures that career resources align with market demands and institutional goals, supporting Carleton College's reputation for graduate preparedness. The Careers Advisory Board President plays a vital part in preparing students for high employment rates and successful careers beyond graduation.

    Janet Scannell - Chief Technology Officer

    Janet Scannell, the Chief Technology Officer at Carleton College, directs the institution's technological infrastructure and digital strategy. Scannell oversees the implementation and maintenance of all IT systems, ensuring robust support for academic research, administrative functions, and student learning experiences across the Northfield, Minnesota campus. This leadership role involves architecting scalable solutions that enhance connectivity and data security, directly supporting the college's mission of providing an unmatched teaching environment. Janet Scannell drives innovation in educational technology, exploring new platforms and tools to enrich the close-knit community and facilitate exploration both in and out of the classroom. The Chief Technology Officer ensures seamless integration of technology with academic programs, fostering a vibrant and inclusive digital environment for students and faculty alike.
    Janet Scannell

    Kerstin Cardenas - Director, Human Resources & Chief Human Resources Officer

    Kerstin Cardenas, the Director, Human Resources & Chief Human Resources Officer at Carleton College, leads all human capital initiatives. Cardenas manages employee relations, talent acquisition, compensation, and benefits programs, ensuring a supportive and equitable work environment for faculty and staff. This executive function is critical to maintaining the college's close-knit community and fostering professional development. Kerstin Cardenas aligns HR strategies with the broader institutional goals of providing unmatched teaching and encouraging exploration, thereby supporting Carleton College's vibrant and inclusive atmosphere. The Chief Human Resources Officer plays a pivotal role in cultivating a culture of engagement and retention, essential for the college's continued success and its commitment to attracting students from across the country.

    Kerstin de Cardenas - Director, Human Resources & Chief Human Resources Officer

    Kerstin de Cardenas, the Director, Human Resources & Chief Human Resources Officer at Carleton College, spearheads comprehensive human resources operations. De Cardenas oversees the strategic development and execution of policies related to employee well-being, organizational development, and compliance, ensuring alignment with the college's prestigious standing. This leadership position is fundamental to nurturing the close-knit community and supporting the diverse academic programs offered. Kerstin de Cardenas champions initiatives that enhance the employee experience, contributing directly to Carleton College's reputation for unmatched teaching and its ability to attract students from across the country. The Chief Human Resources Officer ensures that human capital strategies effectively support the college's mission and its commitment to fostering a vibrant and inclusive environment.
    Kerstin de Cardenas

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Carleton College Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Carleton College?
    Carleton College is led by Omar Alsaad (President, Middle & African Club (East, North)), along with executives such as Anka Raicevic (Alzheimer's Buddies President) and Alex Vue (Co-President - Coalition of Southeast Asians).
    Who is part of Carleton College’s executive team?
    The executive team of Carleton College includes leaders such as Omar Alsaad (President, Middle & African Club (East, North)), Anka Raicevic (Alzheimer's Buddies President), Alex Vue (Co-President - Coalition of Southeast Asians) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Carleton College have?
    Carleton College has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Carleton College’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Carleton College includes roles such as President, Middle & African Club (East, North), Alzheimer's Buddies President, Co-President - Coalition of Southeast Asians, President Emeritus and Professor of Political Science, MVMNT Founder and Co-President.