Central Arizona College Executive and Leadership Team

October, 2026

Leadership Overview

Central Arizona College has 4 executives leading key functions including institutional strategy, technological infrastructure, board governance, and academic leadership.

Committed to fostering regional development, Central Arizona College delivers accessible educational pathways and economic growth opportunities across Pinal County through a diverse network of campuses and learning centers.

Leadership Roles at Central Arizona College

  • President & Chief Executive Officer - Alice Rhine
  • Governing Board President - Gladys Christensen
  • President - Jacqueline Elliott
  • Chief Technology Officer - Tammi Sawade
  • Alice Rhine - President & Chief Executive Officer

    Alice Rhine, the President & Chief Executive Officer at Central Arizona College, directs the overarching institutional strategy and long-term vision for the organization. Rhine manages the alignment of academic programs with the evolving economic needs of Pinal County. By coordinating with the Governing Board, the President & Chief Executive Officer ensures fiscal responsibility and operational excellence across all five campuses. Alice Rhine drives initiatives that expand access to higher education for diverse community populations. This leadership role involves fostering partnerships with local industry leaders to enhance workforce development outcomes. Through the implementation of strategic growth plans, the President & Chief Executive Officer maintains the institution's commitment to personal and cultural advancement. Rhine oversees the executive cabinet to guarantee that all departments support the core mission of providing high-quality, accessible learning opportunities for students of all ages throughout the region.

    Gladys Christensen - Governing Board President

    Gladys Christensen, the Governing Board President at Central Arizona College, directs the policy-making processes and oversight functions for the institution. Christensen manages the board's engagement with the community to ensure institutional accountability and transparency. By facilitating high-level discussions regarding budget allocations and strategic priorities, the Governing Board President maintains the financial health of the college. Gladys Christensen drives the development of governance frameworks that align with the educational needs of Pinal County. This leadership role involves evaluating institutional performance against established benchmarks and long-term goals. Through the supervision of board activities, the Governing Board President ensures compliance with state regulations and institutional bylaws. Christensen coordinates with executive leadership to foster an environment conducive to academic success and regional economic development. By upholding rigorous standards of governance, the Governing Board President secures the future stability and growth of the entire college system.

    Jacqueline Elliott - President

    Jacqueline Elliott, the President at Central Arizona College, directs the academic operations and student success initiatives across the institution's multiple campuses. Elliott manages the curriculum development process to ensure alignment with regional workforce demands. By overseeing faculty recruitment and professional development, the President fosters a culture of excellence in teaching and learning. Jacqueline Elliott drives student retention programs that provide support for diverse populations throughout Pinal County. This leadership role involves collaborating with administrative departments to enhance the overall student experience and campus environment. Through the implementation of academic policies, the President ensures that educational offerings remain accessible and relevant. Elliott monitors institutional outcomes to verify that programs meet the needs of students seeking personal and professional growth. By focusing on academic quality and student-centered services, the President supports the mission of providing high-impact educational opportunities within the local community.

    Tammi Sawade - Chief Technology Officer

    Tammi Sawade, the Chief Technology Officer at Central Arizona College, architects the digital infrastructure required to support modern educational delivery across all campuses. Sawade manages the integration of advanced learning management systems and secure network environments. By overseeing the deployment of enterprise software, the Chief Technology Officer ensures seamless connectivity for students and faculty throughout Pinal County. Tammi Sawade drives the digital transformation strategy to improve administrative efficiency and classroom engagement. This leadership role involves collaborating with academic departments to implement innovative instructional technologies. Through the optimization of data security protocols, the Chief Technology Officer protects institutional assets and student information. Sawade directs the IT department to maintain robust systems that facilitate remote and in-person learning. By prioritizing scalable technology solutions, the Chief Technology Officer supports the institution's goal of providing accessible growth opportunities for the entire community.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Central Arizona College Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Central Arizona College?
    Central Arizona College is led by Alice Rhine (President & Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Gladys Christensen (Governing Board President) and Jacqueline Elliott (President).
    Who is part of Central Arizona College’s executive team?
    The executive team of Central Arizona College includes leaders such as Alice Rhine (President & Chief Executive Officer), Gladys Christensen (Governing Board President), Jacqueline Elliott (President) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Central Arizona College have?
    Central Arizona College has 4 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Central Arizona College’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Central Arizona College includes roles such as President & Chief Executive Officer, Governing Board President, President, Chief Technology Officer.