Harper College Executive and Leadership Team

Tom Harper, the President at Harper College, provides visionary leadership and strategic direction for the entire institution. Harper guides the college's mission to serve the Northwest Chicago Region through accessible, high-quality education and workforce development. This executive role involves overseeing all academic and administrative operations, fostering a culture of innovation and student success, and managing relationships with key stakeholders, including the Board of Trustees, faculty, staff, and the community. By setting institutional priorities and ensuring financial stability, Tom Harper drives the college's growth and impact. The President's leadership is instrumental in advancing Harper College's commitment to educational excellence and community engagement, shaping the future of higher education in the region.

Kenneth Ender, the President at Harper College, directs the strategic vision and operational management of the institution. Ender leads efforts to enhance educational programs, expand community outreach, and ensure the college remains a vital resource for the Northwest Chicago Region. This leadership position involves overseeing all facets of college operations, from academic affairs and student services to financial management and institutional advancement. By championing innovation and academic rigor, Kenneth Ender strengthens Harper College's reputation for excellence. The President's role is critical in navigating the evolving landscape of higher education, ensuring the college effectively meets the needs of its students and the broader community, thereby fulfilling its educational mandate.

Avis Proctor, the President at Harper College, provides executive leadership and strategic oversight for the institution's comprehensive operations. Proctor guides the college in fulfilling its commitment to providing accessible and effective educational opportunities throughout the Northwest Chicago Region. This role encompasses setting institutional priorities, fostering a collaborative campus environment, and ensuring the delivery of high-quality academic and workforce training programs. By driving strategic initiatives and managing institutional resources, Avis Proctor enhances Harper College's capacity to serve its diverse student population. The President's leadership is essential for advancing the college's mission and adapting to the dynamic needs of the educational sector and the community it serves.

Riaz Yusuff, the Chief Information Officer at Harper College, directs the institution's technology strategy and infrastructure. Overseeing all IT operations, Yusuff ensures the delivery of robust digital services that support academic and administrative functions across the Northwest Chicago Region. This leadership role involves managing cybersecurity initiatives, optimizing network performance, and implementing innovative technological solutions to enhance the student and faculty experience. By driving digital transformation, Riaz Yusuff supports Harper College's mission of providing accessible and effective education. The Chief Information Officer's responsibilities extend to managing the IT budget, leading the technology department, and collaborating with other leaders to align technology investments with institutional goals, thereby securing the college's technological future.

Erika Hartman, the Chief Human Resources Officer at Harper College, oversees all human capital management strategies. Hartman directs the development and implementation of policies and programs that support the college's workforce, fostering a positive and productive environment for faculty and staff. This critical role involves talent acquisition, employee relations, compensation and benefits administration, and professional development initiatives. By ensuring effective HR practices, Erika Hartman contributes directly to the operational efficiency and strategic objectives of Harper College. The Chief Human Resources Officer also champions initiatives that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion within the college community, aligning HR functions with the institution's commitment to serving the Northwest Chicago Region. Hartman's leadership ensures the college attracts and retains top talent.

Susan Contarino, the Interim Chief Information Officer at Harper College, provides critical leadership for the institution's technology services during a transitional period. Contarino guides the IT department in maintaining essential digital infrastructure and supporting ongoing technology projects that are vital to academic delivery and administrative operations. This role focuses on ensuring continuity and stability in IT services, addressing immediate technological needs, and supporting strategic technology planning. By managing day-to-day IT operations, Susan Contarino ensures that students and staff have reliable access to the digital tools necessary for learning and working. The Interim Chief Information Officer's oversight is crucial for the effective functioning of Harper College's technological ecosystem, supporting its mission within the Northwest Chicago Region.

Amanda Duval, the Chief Human Resources Officer at Harper College, leads comprehensive human resources functions essential for institutional success. Duval directs strategies for talent management, employee engagement, and organizational development, ensuring Harper College attracts and retains a skilled and dedicated workforce. This position involves overseeing recruitment processes, managing employee relations, administering benefits programs, and fostering a culture of continuous learning and professional growth. By implementing effective HR policies, Amanda Duval directly supports the college's commitment to its employees and its mission of serving the Northwest Chicago Region. The Chief Human Resources Officer plays a pivotal role in aligning human capital with the strategic goals of the institution, promoting a supportive and inclusive workplace environment.

Jeffery Julian, the Chief of Staff & Vice President, External Affairs at Harper College, orchestrates strategic initiatives and manages key external relationships. Julian directs the college's engagement with community partners, government agencies, and other stakeholders, fostering collaborations that advance Harper College's mission. This multifaceted role involves overseeing strategic planning processes, managing institutional communications, and representing the college in various external forums. By cultivating strong external ties, Jeffery Julian enhances the college's visibility and impact within the Northwest Chicago Region. The Chief of Staff & Vice President, External Affairs also provides high-level support to the President, ensuring operational alignment and effective execution of institutional priorities, thereby driving growth and community support.

David McShane, the IT Chief Information Officer & Vice President at Harper College, leads the strategic direction and operational execution of all information technology initiatives. McShane oversees the development and maintenance of the college's technological infrastructure, ensuring robust support for academic programs, administrative functions, and research activities. This leadership position involves managing IT security, data management, network operations, and the implementation of innovative digital solutions to enhance educational delivery and institutional efficiency. By driving technological advancements, David McShane directly contributes to Harper College's commitment to providing accessible and high-quality education. The IT Chief Information Officer & Vice President plays a crucial role in aligning technology strategy with the college's overall mission and goals for the Northwest Chicago Region.