Elgin Community College Executive and Leadership Team

June, 2026

Leadership Overview

Elgin Community College has 4 executives leading key functions including strategy, human resources, and operations.

Driven by a commitment to lifelong learning, Elgin Community College provides diverse educational pathways and community engagement opportunities, fostering individual growth and regional development.

Leadership Roles at Elgin Community College

  • Chief Executive Officer - Thabo Makgabutlane
  • President - Peggy Heinrich
  • Deputy Chief Human Resources Officer - Tonisha Via
  • Chief Human Resources Officer - Alison Guengerich
  • Thabo Makgabutlane - Chief Executive Officer

    Thabo Makgabutlane, the Chief Executive Officer at Elgin Community College, directs the overarching strategic vision and operational framework for the institution. Makgabutlane guides the college's mission to serve students at every stage of their educational journeys, ensuring comprehensive offerings from university transfer programs to continuing education. This leadership role involves fostering partnerships within the community and aligning academic programs with workforce demands. Overseeing institutional development, Makgabutlane ensures that Elgin Community College remains a vital resource for lifelong learning and community enrichment. The Chief Executive Officer's focus remains on driving institutional excellence and expanding access to educational opportunities across the region. Through strategic planning and resource allocation, Makgabutlane champions innovation in educational delivery and student support services, solidifying the college's position as a cornerstone of community development.

    Peggy Heinrich - President

    Peggy Heinrich, the President at Elgin Community College, provides executive leadership and strategic direction for the entire institution. Heinrich champions the college's commitment to serving students at every stage of their educational journeys, overseeing all academic and administrative functions. This role involves fostering strong relationships with community stakeholders, government officials, and educational partners to advance the college's mission. Peggy Heinrich guides the development and implementation of strategic plans, ensuring fiscal responsibility and operational efficiency. The President's focus is on enhancing the quality of educational programs, expanding access to learning opportunities, and promoting the college's role as a vital community resource. Through visionary leadership, Heinrich drives innovation and ensures that Elgin Community College continues to meet the evolving needs of its students and the broader community.
    Peggy Heinrich

    Tonisha Via - Deputy Chief Human Resources Officer

    Tonisha Via, the Deputy Chief Human Resources Officer at Elgin Community College, supports the strategic direction and execution of human capital initiatives. Via collaborates with the Chief Human Resources Officer to develop and implement policies that foster a positive and productive work environment for all faculty and staff. This role involves managing employee relations, overseeing recruitment and retention strategies, and ensuring compliance with labor laws and regulations. Tonisha Via contributes to the development of comprehensive compensation and benefits programs designed to attract and retain top talent. The Deputy Chief Human Resources Officer plays a critical part in cultivating a culture of continuous improvement and professional development across the college. By supporting key HR functions, Via ensures the effective management of the college's most valuable asset: its people, directly impacting the quality of education and community services provided.

    Alison Guengerich - Chief Human Resources Officer

    Alison Guengerich, the Chief Human Resources Officer at Elgin Community College, architects the comprehensive human resources strategy for the institution. Guengerich leads the department responsible for talent acquisition, employee development, compensation, benefits, and fostering a robust organizational culture. This executive oversees the implementation of policies and programs that support the college's mission and values, ensuring a supportive and equitable environment for all employees. Alison Guengerich drives initiatives aimed at enhancing employee engagement and retention, crucial for maintaining the high quality of educational services. The Chief Human Resources Officer works closely with senior leadership to align HR strategies with institutional goals, managing workforce planning and organizational design. Guengerich's leadership ensures that Elgin Community College attracts, develops, and retains a skilled and dedicated workforce, vital for its comprehensive educational offerings and community impact.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Elgin Community College Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Elgin Community College?
    Elgin Community College is led by Thabo Makgabutlane (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Peggy Heinrich (President) and Tonisha Via (Deputy Chief Human Resources Officer).
    Who is part of Elgin Community College’s executive team?
    The executive team of Elgin Community College includes leaders such as Thabo Makgabutlane (Chief Executive Officer), Peggy Heinrich (President), Tonisha Via (Deputy Chief Human Resources Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Elgin Community College have?
    Elgin Community College has 4 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Elgin Community College’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Elgin Community College includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, President, Deputy Chief Human Resources Officer, Chief Human Resources Officer.