Columbia College Chicago Executive and Leadership Team

Shantele Bolton, the President & Chief Executive Officer at Columbia College Chicago, directs the institution's overarching strategic vision and operational execution. This leadership role involves guiding all academic and administrative functions to advance the college's mission in arts and media education. Bolton oversees the development and implementation of long-term institutional goals, ensuring Columbia College Chicago remains at the forefront of creative industry education. The President & Chief Executive Officer drives initiatives that enhance student success, faculty development, and community engagement. This position requires close collaboration with the Board of Trustees to ensure fiscal responsibility and sustainable growth. Shantele Bolton's leadership focuses on expanding the college's reach and impact within the national and international arts and media landscape, fostering an environment of continuous innovation and academic excellence.

Jerry Tarrer, the Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer at Columbia College Chicago, directs the college's comprehensive operational framework and resource management. This leadership position oversees the efficient functioning of all non-academic departments, including facilities, human resources, and administrative services, ensuring alignment with the institution's educational mission. Tarrer drives operational excellence, implementing strategies to optimize resource allocation and enhance campus infrastructure. The Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer plays a crucial role in managing budgets, mitigating risks, and ensuring the smooth day-to-day operations that support student learning and faculty endeavors. Jerry Tarrer's focus is on creating a sustainable and effective operational environment, enabling Columbia College Chicago to achieve its strategic goals in arts and media education.

Paul Chavez, the President at Columbia College Chicago, leads specific strategic initiatives and operational areas within the institution. This executive role focuses on advancing key programs and fostering growth in designated sectors of the college's arts and media disciplines. Chavez directs the implementation of strategic plans, ensuring departmental objectives align with the broader institutional mission. The President oversees the management of resources and personnel within their purview, driving performance and innovation. Paul Chavez's leadership contributes to the overall strategic direction and operational success of Columbia College Chicago, focusing on enhancing educational offerings and student experiences. This position is integral to the college's ongoing development and commitment to excellence in creative education.

Paula Hambrick, the President at Columbia College Chicago, directs critical institutional functions and strategic development within specific operational domains. This executive leadership role is dedicated to advancing the college's mission in arts and media education through targeted program development and resource management. Hambrick oversees the execution of strategic objectives, ensuring departmental alignment and fostering an environment conducive to creative and academic achievement. The President is responsible for guiding teams, optimizing processes, and driving initiatives that enhance the student and faculty experience. Paula Hambrick's contributions are vital to the operational effectiveness and strategic advancement of Columbia College Chicago, reinforcing its position as a leader in specialized higher education.

Jacqueline Rezak, the President, Fashion Advisory Board at Columbia College Chicago, guides the strategic direction and industry relevance of the college's fashion programs. This pivotal role involves fostering strong connections between academia and the professional fashion world, ensuring curriculum remains current and responsive to industry demands. Rezak leads the advisory board, leveraging collective expertise to enhance educational offerings and student career opportunities. The President, Fashion Advisory Board oversees initiatives that promote innovation, internships, and professional development within the fashion discipline. Jacqueline Rezak's leadership ensures Columbia College Chicago's fashion students receive cutting-edge training and are well-prepared for successful careers in the global fashion industry.

Joy Jones, the President, Connections (Columbia) at Columbia College Chicago, spearheads initiatives focused on building and strengthening external relationships and community engagement. This executive position drives strategic partnerships and outreach efforts designed to enhance the college's visibility and impact. Jones oversees programs that connect students, alumni, and industry professionals, fostering a vibrant network that supports educational and career development. The President, Connections (Columbia) is instrumental in developing collaborative ventures and communication strategies that advance the college's mission in arts and media education. Joy Jones's leadership ensures Columbia College Chicago maintains strong ties with its stakeholders, promoting mutual growth and opportunity.

Robert Barnard, the President at Columbia College Chicago, directs key institutional strategies and operational functions critical to the college's mission. This leadership role focuses on advancing specific academic and administrative objectives within the specialized fields of arts and media. Barnard oversees the implementation of strategic initiatives, ensuring departmental alignment and fostering an environment of academic rigor and creative exploration. The President is responsible for guiding teams, optimizing resource allocation, and driving projects that enhance the educational experience for students and faculty. Robert Barnard's contributions are essential to the ongoing success and strategic development of Columbia College Chicago, reinforcing its commitment to excellence in higher education.

Ronald Aderhold, the Chief Information Officer at Columbia College Chicago, architects and manages the institution's technology infrastructure and digital strategy. This critical role ensures the seamless integration of technology across all academic and administrative departments, supporting the college's specialized arts and media programs. Aderhold oversees the cybersecurity posture, data management, and the implementation of innovative technological solutions that enhance learning and operational efficiency. The Chief Information Officer directs the IT department, fostering a culture of technological advancement and user support. Ronald Aderhold's responsibilities include planning for future technology needs, aligning IT investments with institutional objectives, and ensuring robust digital resources for students and faculty. This leadership position is vital for maintaining Columbia College Chicago's competitive edge in a rapidly evolving digital environment.

Adriel Hilton, the Vice President, Institutional Strategy & Chief of Staff at Columbia College Chicago, spearheads the development and execution of key institutional strategies. This role involves close collaboration with the President to translate strategic vision into actionable plans across all college divisions. Hilton manages critical projects, drives cross-departmental initiatives, and ensures operational alignment with the college's mission in arts and media education. The Vice President, Institutional Strategy & Chief of Staff serves as a key liaison between various stakeholders, facilitating communication and fostering cohesive progress. Adriel Hilton's responsibilities include advising senior leadership, optimizing organizational effectiveness, and advancing strategic partnerships that enhance Columbia College Chicago's standing. This position is central to driving institutional growth and ensuring the successful implementation of long-term objectives.