Gaston College Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

Gaston College has 6 executives leading key functions including strategy, information technology, finance, communications, and academic leadership.

Dedicated to serving the people of Gaston and Lincoln Counties, Gaston College provides high-quality educational programs and services, fostering community growth and individual development through accessible learning opportunities.

Leadership Roles at Gaston College

  • President & Chief Executive Officer - Anissa Starnes
  • Chief Financial Officer - Michael Whiteman
  • President - John Hauser
  • President - Patricia Skinner
  • Chief Information Officer - Savonne McNeill
  • Chief Communications Officer - Todd Hagens
  • Anissa Starnes - President & Chief Executive Officer

    Anissa Starnes, the President & Chief Executive Officer at Gaston College, directs the institution's overall strategic vision and operational execution. Overseeing all academic and administrative departments, Starnes ensures alignment with the college's mission to serve Gaston and Lincoln Counties. This leadership role involves fostering community partnerships and driving institutional growth through innovative educational programs. By championing student success and faculty development, Anissa Starnes directly impacts the college's contribution to North Carolina's workforce and economic vitality. The President & Chief Executive Officer ensures the college remains a responsive and vital resource for its constituents.

    Michael Whiteman - Chief Financial Officer

    Michael Whiteman, the Chief Financial Officer at Gaston College, manages the institution's fiscal health and financial planning. Overseeing all budgeting, accounting, and financial reporting, Whiteman ensures responsible allocation of resources to support the college's mission. This leadership role involves developing financial strategies that promote sustainability and operational efficiency across Gaston and Lincoln Counties. By maintaining strong financial controls and seeking diverse funding streams, Michael Whiteman directly contributes to the college's capacity to deliver high-quality educational programs. The Chief Financial Officer safeguards the institution's financial integrity.
    Michael Whiteman

    John Hauser - President

    John Hauser, the President at Gaston College, leads the institution's academic and strategic direction, focusing on educational excellence. Overseeing faculty development and curriculum innovation, Hauser ensures the delivery of high-quality programs that meet the evolving needs of Gaston and Lincoln Counties. This leadership role involves fostering a culture of learning and achievement, driving student success through robust academic support services. By championing educational advancement and community engagement, John Hauser directly enhances the college's role as a vital educational resource. The President guides the institution's commitment to accessible and impactful learning.

    Patricia Skinner - President

    Patricia Skinner, the President at Gaston College, spearheads the institution's commitment to providing comprehensive educational services. Overseeing key initiatives that align with community needs, Skinner ensures the college remains a responsive and accessible resource for citizens in Gaston and Lincoln Counties. This leadership role involves fostering strategic partnerships and advancing the college's mission through dedicated program development. By championing student empowerment and educational access, Patricia Skinner directly strengthens the college's impact on regional development. The President drives the institution's dedication to lifelong learning and community betterment.
    Patricia Skinner

    Savonne McNeill - Chief Information Officer

    Savonne McNeill, the Chief Information Officer at Gaston College, architects the institution's technology infrastructure and digital strategy. Overseeing all IT operations, McNeill ensures robust and secure systems that support academic delivery and administrative functions. This leadership role involves implementing innovative technological solutions to enhance student learning experiences and streamline college operations. By managing data integrity and cybersecurity protocols, Savonne McNeill directly supports the college's commitment to providing high-quality educational programs. The Chief Information Officer drives technological advancement across all campus services.

    Todd Hagens - Chief Communications Officer

    Todd Hagens, the Chief Communications Officer at Gaston College, shapes and disseminates the institution's public image and internal messaging. Overseeing all marketing, public relations, and media engagement, Hagens ensures clear and consistent communication of the college's mission and achievements. This leadership role involves developing strategic communication plans to enhance community awareness and stakeholder engagement across North Carolina. By managing brand reputation and facilitating dialogue, Todd Hagens directly supports the college's commitment to serving its constituents. The Chief Communications Officer amplifies the college's impact through effective outreach.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Gaston College Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Gaston College?
    Gaston College is led by Anissa Starnes (President & Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Michael Whiteman (Chief Financial Officer) and John Hauser (President).
    Who is part of Gaston College’s executive team?
    The executive team of Gaston College includes leaders such as Anissa Starnes (President & Chief Executive Officer), Michael Whiteman (Chief Financial Officer), John Hauser (President) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Gaston College have?
    Gaston College has 6 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Gaston College’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Gaston College includes roles such as President & Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, President, President, Chief Information Officer.