Central New Mexico Community College Executive and Leadership Team

September, 2026

Leadership Overview

Central New Mexico Community College has 6 executives leading key functions including operations, marketing, administration, human resources, and institutional strategy.

Committed to accessible education and workforce development, Central New Mexico Community College empowers students through innovative degree programs and specialized job training across the region.

Leadership Roles at Central New Mexico Community College

  • President - Tracy Hartzler
  • President - Granville Fairchild
  • Chief Marketing Officer - Chris Pendleton
  • Chief of Staff - Angelo Gonzales
  • Chief Human Resources Officer - Franci Phelan
  • Deputy Director - Craig Edwards
  • Tracy Hartzler - President

    Tracy Hartzler, the President at Central New Mexico Community College, defines the overarching vision and strategic direction for the institution. Overseeing academic excellence and community impact, the President ensures that all programs meet the needs of the regional workforce. Tracy Hartzler architects partnerships with industry leaders to enhance job training and certificate offerings. By engaging with the board and external stakeholders, the President secures the resources necessary for campus expansion and technological upgrades. This leadership role involves championing student success initiatives that promote affordability and accessibility. Through consistent advocacy for higher education, the President elevates the profile of the college within the state. The President also monitors the long-term financial sustainability of the institution, ensuring that every investment supports the core mission. By leading with a focus on innovation, the President drives the college toward future growth and continued community relevance.

    Granville Fairchild - President

    Granville Fairchild, the President at Central New Mexico Community College, focuses on the expansion of technical education and infrastructure development. Overseeing the integration of new vocational programs, the President ensures that the curriculum remains aligned with modern industry standards. Granville Fairchild architects collaborative frameworks that connect students with local employers for internships and job placement. By managing large-scale capital projects, the President improves campus facilities to support advanced learning in fields like Diesel Equipment Technology. This leadership role involves fostering an inclusive environment that serves a diverse student population. Through strategic oversight of academic quality, the President maintains the reputation of the college as a leader in workforce development. The President also works to diversify revenue streams, ensuring that the institution remains financially resilient. By prioritizing practical skill acquisition, the President prepares students for immediate success in the competitive job market.

    Chris Pendleton - Chief Marketing Officer

    Chris Pendleton, the Chief Marketing Officer at Central New Mexico Community College, directs all brand strategy and student recruitment initiatives. Overseeing digital outreach and community engagement, the Chief Marketing Officer ensures consistent messaging across all platforms. Chris Pendleton architects comprehensive campaigns to highlight the value of affordable degrees and certificates in fields like Diesel Equipment Technology. By analyzing market trends, the Chief Marketing Officer identifies new opportunities to attract prospective students and engage local employers. This leadership role involves managing public relations to strengthen the institutional reputation throughout the state. Through data-driven advertising, the Chief Marketing Officer increases enrollment numbers and enhances visibility for specialized programs. The Chief Marketing Officer also works closely with academic departments to promote new course offerings, ensuring that the public understands the direct link between the college curriculum and current workforce demands.
    Chris Pendleton

    Angelo Gonzales - Chief of Staff

    Angelo Gonzales, the Chief of Staff at Central New Mexico Community College, facilitates strategic planning and executive decision-making processes. Overseeing the implementation of institutional goals, the Chief of Staff ensures alignment between the President and various administrative departments. Angelo Gonzales manages high-level projects that support the college mission of providing accessible education. By coordinating board communications and policy development, the Chief of Staff maintains organizational stability. This leadership role involves resolving complex administrative challenges to keep the institution focused on student success. Through proactive management of executive priorities, the Chief of Staff optimizes the flow of information across the campus. The Chief of Staff also represents the college in community events, fostering strong relationships with stakeholders and regional partners. By bridging the gap between vision and execution, the Chief of Staff drives the overall effectiveness of the college leadership team.

    Franci Phelan - Chief Human Resources Officer

    Franci Phelan, the Chief Human Resources Officer at Central New Mexico Community College, directs talent acquisition and employee development programs. Overseeing workforce policies, the Chief Human Resources Officer ensures a supportive environment for faculty and staff. Franci Phelan architects recruitment strategies to attract top-tier educators capable of delivering high-quality instruction in technical fields. By managing benefits administration and professional development, the Chief Human Resources Officer fosters a culture of excellence and retention. This leadership role involves navigating complex labor regulations to maintain institutional compliance. Through the implementation of performance management systems, the Chief Human Resources Officer supports the professional growth of the entire workforce. The Chief Human Resources Officer also collaborates with department heads to align staffing levels with the evolving needs of the student population. By prioritizing employee engagement, the Chief Human Resources Officer strengthens the foundation of the college.

    Craig Edwards - Deputy Director

    Craig Edwards, the Deputy Director at Central New Mexico Community College, manages daily operational workflows to ensure institutional efficiency. Overseeing administrative support systems, the Deputy Director aligns internal processes with the broader educational mission. Craig Edwards coordinates cross-departmental initiatives to optimize resource allocation for academic programs like Software Development and Electroneurodiagnostic Technology. By streamlining communication between faculty and support staff, the Deputy Director maintains high standards of service for the diverse student body. This leadership role involves monitoring performance metrics to drive continuous improvement across all campus facilities. Through rigorous oversight of operational budgets, the Deputy Director secures the financial health necessary for long-term growth. The Deputy Director also collaborates with external partners to expand job training opportunities, ensuring that the institution remains a primary driver of workforce development within the regional economy.

    Explore Leadership Teams in Colleges & Universities

    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Central New Mexico Community College Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Central New Mexico Community College?
    Central New Mexico Community College is led by Tracy Hartzler (President), along with executives such as Granville Fairchild (President) and Chris Pendleton (Chief Marketing Officer).
    Who is part of Central New Mexico Community College’s executive team?
    The executive team of Central New Mexico Community College includes leaders such as Tracy Hartzler (President), Granville Fairchild (President), Chris Pendleton (Chief Marketing Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Central New Mexico Community College have?
    Central New Mexico Community College has 6 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Central New Mexico Community College’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Central New Mexico Community College includes roles such as President, President, Chief Marketing Officer, Chief of Staff, Chief Human Resources Officer.