Harper College Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

Harper College has 8 executives leading key functions including information technology, external affairs, human resources, and institutional leadership.

Driven by a commitment to accessible education, Harper College empowers students across the Northwest Chicago Region through comprehensive academic programs and community engagement, fostering lifelong learning and career advancement.

Leadership Roles at Harper College

  • President - Avis Proctor
  • President - Kenneth Ender
  • Chief Information Officer - Riaz Yusuff
  • Chief of Staff & Vice President, External Affairs - Jeffery Julian
  • Chief Human Resources Officer - Amanda Duval
  • Chief Human Resources Officer - Erika Hartman
  • IT Chief Information Officer & Vice President - David McShane
  • Interim Chief Information Officer - Susan Contarino
  • Avis Proctor - President

    Avis Proctor, the President at Harper College, provides executive leadership and strategic direction for the entire institution. Proctor guides the college's mission, vision, and values, overseeing all academic programs, administrative functions, and community engagement initiatives across the Northwest Chicago Region. This paramount role involves fostering a culture of academic excellence, innovation, and inclusivity. By championing educational advancement and resource development, Avis Proctor directly shapes the future of Harper College. The President's responsibilities include representing the college to external stakeholders and ensuring its continued growth and impact in higher education.

    Kenneth Ender - President

    Kenneth Ender, the President at Harper College, drives the strategic vision and operational leadership for the institution. Ender oversees the college's comprehensive educational offerings and community outreach, ensuring alignment with its founding mission to serve the Northwest Chicago Region. This key position involves fostering an environment of academic rigor, student success, and continuous improvement. By advocating for institutional growth and resource development, Kenneth Ender directly enhances Harper College's capacity to deliver quality education. The President's focus includes cultivating partnerships and advancing the college's reputation as a leading educational provider.
    Kenneth Ender

    Riaz Yusuff - Chief Information Officer

    Riaz Yusuff, the Chief Information Officer at Harper College, directs the institution's technology strategy and infrastructure. Overseeing all aspects of information systems, Yusuff ensures the delivery of robust and secure technological solutions that support academic and administrative operations. This leadership role involves managing the IT department, driving digital transformation initiatives, and enhancing the college's online learning platforms. By optimizing network performance and implementing advanced cybersecurity measures, Riaz Yusuff directly supports the college's mission of providing accessible education. The Chief Information Officer's focus remains on leveraging technology to improve student outcomes and operational efficiency across the Palatine campus.
    Riaz Yusuff

    Jeffery Julian - Chief of Staff & Vice President, External Affairs

    Jeffery Julian, the Chief of Staff & Vice President, External Affairs at Harper College, orchestrates strategic initiatives and manages external relations. This dual role involves advising the President on key institutional matters and cultivating relationships with community stakeholders, government agencies, and industry partners. Julian drives the college's outreach programs and champions its mission throughout the Northwest Chicago Region. By ensuring seamless communication and fostering collaborative partnerships, Jeffery Julian directly enhances Harper College's public profile and community impact. The Chief of Staff & Vice President, External Affairs's responsibilities include developing strategic plans and overseeing projects that advance the college's educational goals.

    Amanda Duval - Chief Human Resources Officer

    Amanda Duval, the Chief Human Resources Officer at Harper College, leads all human capital management functions. Duval oversees talent acquisition, employee development, compensation and benefits, and HR policy implementation, ensuring a supportive and productive work environment for all faculty and staff. This critical position involves fostering a culture of engagement and professional growth aligned with the college's educational objectives. By developing strategic HR initiatives, Amanda Duval directly contributes to the institution's ability to attract and retain top talent. The Chief Human Resources Officer's focus is on empowering employees and ensuring compliance with labor laws, thereby supporting Harper College's operational excellence.

    Erika Hartman - Chief Human Resources Officer

    Erika Hartman, the Chief Human Resources Officer at Harper College, spearheads initiatives focused on employee well-being and organizational development. Hartman manages comprehensive HR programs, including performance management, employee relations, and diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts, ensuring a positive and compliant workplace. This role is vital for cultivating a skilled and motivated workforce dedicated to Harper College's educational mission. By implementing innovative HR strategies, Erika Hartman directly enhances employee satisfaction and retention. The Chief Human Resources Officer's oversight extends to workforce planning and the development of policies that support the college's strategic goals.

    David McShane - IT Chief Information Officer & Vice President

    David McShane, the IT Chief Information Officer & Vice President at Harper College, directs the strategic vision and operational execution of the institution's information technology services. McShane oversees the development and implementation of technology infrastructure, ensuring robust cybersecurity and seamless integration of digital tools to support academic and administrative functions. This leadership position involves managing IT projects, driving innovation in educational technology, and enhancing the overall digital experience for students and staff. By optimizing IT resources, David McShane directly supports Harper College's commitment to accessible and effective learning environments. The IT Chief Information Officer & Vice President's purview includes managing the IT budget and ensuring technological advancements align with institutional objectives.

    Susan Contarino - Interim Chief Information Officer

    Susan Contarino, the Interim Chief Information Officer at Harper College, provides critical leadership for the institution's technology operations during a transitional period. Contarino ensures the continuity and stability of essential IT services, including network management, data security, and user support, maintaining operational integrity. This role focuses on overseeing ongoing technology projects and supporting the immediate needs of students, faculty, and staff. By maintaining high standards of IT service delivery, Susan Contarino directly supports Harper College's educational mission. The Interim Chief Information Officer's responsibilities include managing the IT department's day-to-day functions and ensuring alignment with institutional priorities.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Harper College Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Harper College?
    Harper College is led by Avis Proctor (President), along with executives such as Kenneth Ender (President) and Riaz Yusuff (Chief Information Officer).
    Who is part of Harper College’s executive team?
    The executive team of Harper College includes leaders such as Avis Proctor (President), Kenneth Ender (President), Riaz Yusuff (Chief Information Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Harper College have?
    Harper College has 8 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Harper College’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Harper College includes roles such as President, President, Chief Information Officer, Chief of Staff & Vice President, External Affairs, Chief Human Resources Officer.