Dallas College Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

Dallas College has 10 executives leading key functions including strategy, information technology, finance, marketing, human resources, and campus operations.

Driven by a commitment to accessible education, Dallas College provides associate degrees and career certificates, empowering students across Dallas County with over 100 areas of study and fostering significant regional economic impact.

Leadership Roles at Dallas College

  • Chief Executive Officer, Contract & Processor - Katie Banani
  • Chief Financial Officer - Tiska Thomas
  • President, Lake Campus (North) - Richard Smith
  • Chief of Staff - Juan Garcia
  • Chief Information Officer - Russell Pearlman
  • Chief Marketing Officer - Dorothy Jones
  • Deputy Chief Information Officer & Governance & Portfolio Management Executive - Timothy Singel
  • Deputy Chief Information Officer - Prakash Paul
  • Deputy Chief Human Resources Officer - Eric Rodriguez
  • Chief Human Resources Officer - Louis Burrell
  • Katie Banani - Chief Executive Officer, Contract & Processor

    Katie Banani, the Chief Executive Officer, Contract & Processor at Dallas College, spearheads the strategic direction and operational execution for contract education and processing services. Overseeing key partnerships and service delivery, Banani ensures the efficient and effective provision of specialized training programs and administrative functions across Dallas County. This executive position is critical for developing and managing agreements that align with the college's mission to provide career-focused education and workforce development solutions. By driving innovation in contract management and processing systems, Katie Banani enhances the college's ability to meet the evolving needs of industry partners and students. The Chief Executive Officer, Contract & Processor's leadership ensures seamless operations and strategic growth in specialized service areas.

    Tiska Thomas - Chief Financial Officer

    Tiska Thomas, the Chief Financial Officer at Dallas College, directs the fiscal health and financial strategy of the institution. Overseeing all financial operations, Thomas ensures prudent management of resources, budget allocation, and financial reporting across Dallas County. This executive role involves developing long-term financial plans, managing investments, and ensuring compliance with all regulatory requirements to support the college's mission of accessible education. By optimizing financial performance and identifying strategic funding opportunities, Tiska Thomas strengthens the college's capacity to offer a wide array of associate degrees and career certificates. The Chief Financial Officer's oversight is crucial for maintaining operational stability and enabling future growth initiatives.

    Richard Smith - President, Lake Campus (North)

    Richard Smith, the President, Lake Campus (North) at Dallas College, leads the strategic vision and operational management for the North Dallas campus. Overseeing all academic programs, student services, and community engagement initiatives, Smith ensures the delivery of high-quality educational experiences tailored to the needs of the North Dallas region. This leadership position is vital for fostering campus growth, enhancing student success, and strengthening the campus's connection to local industries and communities. By driving innovation in curriculum delivery and student support, Richard Smith cultivates a dynamic learning environment. The President, Lake Campus (North)'s dedication ensures the campus effectively serves its student population and contributes to Dallas College's broader mission.

    Juan Garcia - Chief of Staff

    Juan Garcia, the Chief of Staff at Dallas College, directs strategic initiatives and operational alignment across the institution. Overseeing critical projects, Garcia ensures the seamless execution of college-wide objectives, supporting the President's vision for academic excellence and community engagement. This leadership position involves close collaboration with all department heads to optimize resource allocation and streamline administrative processes. By managing key stakeholder communications and facilitating interdepartmental synergy, Juan Garcia drives forward the college's mission to provide accessible, high-quality education. The role demands a comprehensive understanding of educational policy and operational efficiency to foster continuous improvement across all seven campuses in Dallas County.

    Russell Pearlman - Chief Information Officer

    Russell Pearlman, the Chief Information Officer at Dallas College, architects the institution's technology strategy and digital infrastructure. Overseeing all IT operations, Pearlman ensures the delivery of robust, secure, and scalable technology solutions that support academic and administrative functions across Dallas County. This critical role involves managing enterprise-wide systems, data security protocols, and digital learning platforms to enhance student success and operational efficiency. By driving innovation in information technology, Russell Pearlman enables the college to adapt to evolving educational landscapes and maintain a competitive edge. The Chief Information Officer's leadership ensures that technology investments directly align with Dallas College's commitment to providing accessible, career-focused education.

    Dorothy Jones - Chief Marketing Officer

    Dorothy Jones, the Chief Marketing Officer at Dallas College, leads the strategic development and execution of all marketing and communications initiatives. Overseeing brand management, public relations, and digital outreach, Jones ensures the effective promotion of the college's extensive program offerings across Dallas County. This role is pivotal in attracting prospective students, engaging community stakeholders, and reinforcing Dallas College's position as a leading provider of career-technical education. By crafting compelling narratives and implementing data-driven marketing campaigns, Dorothy Jones drives enrollment growth and enhances institutional reputation. The Chief Marketing Officer's efforts are essential for communicating the value and impact of the college's associate degrees and certificate programs.

    Timothy Singel - Deputy Chief Information Officer & Governance & Portfolio Management Executive

    Timothy Singel, the Deputy Chief Information Officer & Governance & Portfolio Management Executive at Dallas College, supports the Chief Information Officer in managing technology governance and strategic portfolio investments. Overseeing critical aspects of IT project selection and oversight, Singel ensures that technology initiatives align with institutional goals and deliver maximum value across Dallas County. This role is essential for establishing robust governance frameworks and optimizing the allocation of IT resources to support academic and administrative functions. By driving effective portfolio management, Timothy Singel enhances the efficiency and impact of technology deployments. The Deputy Chief Information Officer's focus on governance ensures compliance and strategic alignment for all technology-related endeavors.

    Prakash Paul - Deputy Chief Information Officer

    Prakash Paul, the Deputy Chief Information Officer at Dallas College, assists the Chief Information Officer in overseeing the institution's technology infrastructure and operations. Managing key IT service delivery functions, Paul ensures the reliability and performance of systems supporting academic and administrative needs across Dallas County. This position plays a vital role in implementing technology solutions that enhance student learning experiences and streamline operational processes. By focusing on operational excellence and system optimization, Prakash Paul contributes significantly to the college's digital transformation efforts. The Deputy Chief Information Officer's dedication to service delivery supports Dallas College's commitment to providing accessible and effective educational resources.

    Eric Rodriguez - Deputy Chief Human Resources Officer

    Eric Rodriguez, the Deputy Chief Human Resources Officer at Dallas College, supports the Chief Human Resources Officer in managing the institution's workforce and talent development strategies. Overseeing key HR functions, Rodriguez ensures the effective implementation of policies and programs that foster a positive and productive work environment across Dallas County. This role is crucial for talent acquisition, employee relations, and the development of comprehensive HR services that align with the college's mission. By driving initiatives that support employee growth and engagement, Eric Rodriguez contributes to building a strong and dedicated team. The Deputy Chief Human Resources Officer's efforts are instrumental in attracting and retaining the skilled professionals necessary for Dallas College's success.

    Louis Burrell - Chief Human Resources Officer

    Louis Burrell, the Chief Human Resources Officer at Dallas College, directs the comprehensive human resources strategy and operations for the institution. Overseeing talent management, employee development, and organizational culture initiatives, Burrell ensures a supportive and high-performing work environment across Dallas County. This executive role is fundamental to attracting, developing, and retaining a diverse and skilled workforce essential for delivering quality education and services. By championing employee well-being and fostering professional growth, Louis Burrell strengthens the college's human capital. The Chief Human Resources Officer's leadership is critical in aligning HR practices with Dallas College's strategic objectives and commitment to its community.
    Louis Burrell

    Explore Leadership Teams in Colleges & Universities

    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Dallas College Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Dallas College?
    Dallas College is led by Katie Banani (Chief Executive Officer, Contract & Processor), along with executives such as Tiska Thomas (Chief Financial Officer) and Richard Smith (President, Lake Campus (North)).
    Who is part of Dallas College’s executive team?
    The executive team of Dallas College includes leaders such as Katie Banani (Chief Executive Officer, Contract & Processor), Tiska Thomas (Chief Financial Officer), Richard Smith (President, Lake Campus (North)) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Dallas College have?
    Dallas College has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Dallas College’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Dallas College includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Contract & Processor, Chief Financial Officer, President, Lake Campus (North), Chief of Staff, Chief Information Officer.