Columbia College Chicago Executive and Leadership Team

Shantele Bolton, the President & Chief Executive Officer at Columbia College Chicago, directs the institution's overall strategic vision and operational execution. Bolton guides the college's mission to provide specialized education in arts and media disciplines, ensuring academic excellence and fostering innovation across all departments. This leadership role involves setting institutional priorities, managing key stakeholder relationships, and driving financial sustainability to support the college's growth and impact. By overseeing all facets of the institution, Shantele Bolton ensures Columbia College Chicago remains at the forefront of creative education, preparing students for successful careers in a dynamic global landscape. The President & Chief Executive Officer's purview encompasses curriculum development, faculty support, and the strategic allocation of resources to advance the college's objectives and enhance its reputation within the higher education sector.

Jerry Tarrer, the Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer at Columbia College Chicago, directs the college's comprehensive operational functions and administrative services. Tarrer oversees facilities management, human resources, campus safety, and auxiliary services, ensuring efficient and effective day-to-day operations. This executive position is pivotal in managing the physical and administrative infrastructure that supports the college's academic and artistic programs. By optimizing operational processes, Jerry Tarrer enhances the overall student and faculty experience and supports the institution's strategic objectives. The Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer's responsibilities include budget oversight for operational departments, implementing best practices in administrative management, and ensuring compliance with all relevant regulations, thereby contributing to the stability and success of Columbia College Chicago.

Paula Hambrick, the President at Columbia College Chicago, leads specific strategic initiatives and operational areas within the institution. Hambrick focuses on advancing key programs and fostering collaborative environments that support the college's mission in arts and media education. This leadership position involves driving forward specific departmental goals and ensuring their alignment with the broader institutional strategy. By directing targeted efforts, Paula Hambrick contributes to the college's overall development and its commitment to providing specialized educational experiences. The President's role emphasizes enhancing the college's offerings and strengthening its position within the competitive landscape of higher education, ensuring Columbia College Chicago continues to thrive.

Joy Jones, the President, Connections (Columbia) at Columbia College Chicago, spearheads initiatives focused on external engagement and strategic partnerships. Jones cultivates relationships with industry leaders, alumni, and community organizations to enhance the college's reach and impact. This role is crucial for developing opportunities that bridge academic learning with professional application, ensuring students gain valuable real-world experience. By leading the Connections division, Joy Jones strengthens the college's network and creates pathways for student success beyond graduation. The President, Connections (Columbia)'s efforts are vital in positioning Columbia College Chicago as a dynamic hub for creative professionals and fostering a robust ecosystem of support for its students and graduates.

Jacqueline Rezak, the President, Fashion Advisory Board at Columbia College Chicago, guides the strategic direction and industry relevance of the college's fashion programs. Rezak collaborates with leading fashion professionals to ensure curriculum remains current and responsive to evolving industry trends. This leadership role involves advising on program development, fostering internship opportunities, and connecting students with influential figures in the fashion world. By chairing the Fashion Advisory Board, Jacqueline Rezak enhances the educational experience and career prospects for fashion students at Columbia College Chicago. The President, Fashion Advisory Board's expertise is instrumental in maintaining the college's reputation for excellence in fashion education and preparing graduates for impactful careers.

Robert Barnard, the President at Columbia College Chicago, drives specific strategic objectives and operational enhancements within the institution. Barnard focuses on advancing critical projects and fostering an environment conducive to innovation and academic rigor. This executive role involves overseeing particular divisions and ensuring their contributions align with the college's core mission of arts and media education. By leading targeted initiatives, Robert Barnard supports the continued growth and development of Columbia College Chicago. The President's leadership is key to strengthening the college's educational offerings and reinforcing its commitment to preparing students for success in their chosen creative fields.

Paul Chavez, the President at Columbia College Chicago, directs key strategic priorities and operational improvements across designated areas of the college. Chavez is dedicated to enhancing the student experience and supporting faculty in their pursuit of artistic and academic excellence. This leadership position involves managing specific institutional functions and ensuring their seamless integration with the college's overall strategic framework. By championing particular initiatives, Paul Chavez contributes significantly to the advancement of Columbia College Chicago's educational mission. The President's focus is on cultivating a dynamic learning environment that empowers students and solidifies the college's standing as a premier institution for arts and media education.

Ronald Aderhold, the Chief Information Officer at Columbia College Chicago, architects and oversees the institution's technology infrastructure and digital strategy. Aderhold manages all aspects of information technology, ensuring robust, secure, and scalable systems that support academic, administrative, and creative endeavors. This critical role involves implementing innovative technological solutions to enhance learning experiences, streamline operations, and protect sensitive data. By leading the IT department, Ronald Aderhold drives digital transformation initiatives, fostering an environment where technology empowers faculty, staff, and students. The Chief Information Officer's responsibilities extend to managing IT budgets, vendor relationships, and cybersecurity protocols, safeguarding the college's digital assets and ensuring seamless technological operations across all campuses and programs.

Adriel Hilton, the Vice President, Institutional Strategy & Chief of Staff at Columbia College Chicago, spearheads the development and implementation of key institutional initiatives and provides strategic support to the President. Hilton orchestrates cross-departmental collaboration, ensuring alignment with the college's overarching mission and long-term goals. This multifaceted role involves managing special projects, facilitating communication between leadership and various college divisions, and driving strategic planning processes. By serving as Chief of Staff, Adriel Hilton enhances operational efficiency and supports the effective execution of the President's agenda. The Vice President, Institutional Strategy & Chief of Staff's focus includes identifying opportunities for institutional growth, optimizing resource allocation, and ensuring that strategic priorities translate into tangible outcomes for Columbia College Chicago.