Harper College Executive and Leadership Team

Tom Harper, the President at Harper College, provides executive leadership and strategic direction for the entire institution. Harper guides the college's mission, vision, and long-term planning, ensuring academic excellence and community engagement across the Northwest Chicago Region. This pivotal role involves fostering a culture of innovation, overseeing financial stewardship, and cultivating strong relationships with stakeholders, including students, faculty, staff, and community partners. By championing educational advancement, Tom Harper ensures Harper College remains a leading institution for accessible higher education. The President's leadership is instrumental in driving institutional growth, enhancing student success, and maintaining the college's vital role in Palatine, Illinois.

Kenneth Ender, the President at Harper College, directs the strategic vision and operational execution of the institution. Ender leads the college's commitment to providing accessible, high-quality education and workforce development programs to the Northwest Chicago Region. This executive position involves fostering academic innovation, ensuring fiscal responsibility, and strengthening community partnerships to support student success. By advancing the college's mission, Kenneth Ender enhances Harper College's impact and reputation. The President's leadership guides institutional priorities, promotes a culture of continuous improvement, and ensures the college effectively serves its diverse student population in Palatine, Illinois.

Avis Proctor, the President at Harper College, provides visionary leadership and strategic oversight for the institution's comprehensive operations. Proctor guides the college's commitment to student success, academic rigor, and community impact throughout the Northwest Chicago Region. This leadership role involves setting institutional priorities, fostering a collaborative environment, and ensuring the effective allocation of resources to support Harper College's educational mission. By driving strategic initiatives, Avis Proctor enhances the college's ability to adapt to evolving educational landscapes and meet the needs of its students. The President's dedication ensures Harper College continues to be a cornerstone of higher learning and opportunity in Palatine, Illinois.

Riaz Yusuff, the Chief Information Officer at Harper College, directs the institution's technology strategy and infrastructure. Yusuff oversees all aspects of information systems, ensuring robust and secure digital environments that support academic and administrative functions. This leadership role involves managing the implementation of new technologies, enhancing cybersecurity measures, and optimizing network performance across the Palatine campus. By driving innovation in IT services, Riaz Yusuff ensures that students and faculty have access to the digital tools necessary for effective learning and operational efficiency. The Chief Information Officer's responsibilities extend to data management, system integration, and providing technical support, all critical for Harper College's mission in the Northwest Chicago Region.

Jeffery Julian, the Chief of Staff & Vice President, External Affairs at Harper College, manages strategic initiatives and cultivates external relationships. Julian orchestrates key projects, ensuring alignment with the college's overarching goals and operational efficiency. This executive role involves fostering partnerships with community organizations, government bodies, and industry leaders to advance Harper College's mission. By leading external affairs, Jeffery Julian enhances the institution's public image and expands its reach within the Northwest Chicago Region. The Chief of Staff & Vice President, External Affairs also provides critical support to the President, facilitating communication and driving policy implementation across departments. Julian's strategic oversight ensures sustained growth and community impact.

Erika Hartman, the Chief Human Resources Officer at Harper College, leads all human capital management strategies and operations. Hartman oversees talent acquisition, employee development, compensation, and benefits programs, ensuring a supportive and productive work environment for all staff and faculty. This critical role involves developing and implementing HR policies that align with Harper College's commitment to its employees and its educational mission. By fostering a culture of engagement and professional growth, Erika Hartman contributes directly to the institution's ability to attract and retain top talent. The Chief Human Resources Officer ensures compliance with labor laws and champions diversity and inclusion initiatives across the Palatine campus, reinforcing Harper College's standing in the Northwest Chicago Region.

Amanda Duval, the Chief Human Resources Officer at Harper College, directs comprehensive human resources functions and strategic workforce planning. Duval manages employee relations, performance management systems, and organizational development initiatives designed to enhance institutional effectiveness. This leadership position focuses on cultivating a positive and inclusive workplace culture that supports Harper College's educational objectives and community service. By ensuring equitable HR practices, Amanda Duval strengthens the employee experience and supports the college's mission. The Chief Human Resources Officer plays a vital part in talent management, succession planning, and fostering professional development opportunities for all personnel within the Northwest Chicago Region, ensuring Harper College remains an employer of choice.

David McShane, the IT Chief Information Officer & Vice President at Harper College, spearheads the institution's technological advancements and IT operations. McShane directs the strategic planning and execution of information technology initiatives, ensuring systems are secure, scalable, and aligned with academic and administrative needs. This executive role involves overseeing infrastructure development, cybersecurity protocols, and the integration of innovative digital solutions to enhance the learning experience. By driving technological excellence, David McShane supports Harper College's mission to provide accessible and high-quality education in the Northwest Chicago Region. The IT Chief Information Officer & Vice President ensures operational continuity and fosters a culture of digital literacy among students and staff.

Susan Contarino, the Interim Chief Information Officer at Harper College, provides critical leadership for the institution's information technology operations during a transitional period. Contarino oversees the day-to-day management of IT services, ensuring the stability and security of all technological systems supporting academic and administrative functions. This role focuses on maintaining essential IT infrastructure, supporting ongoing projects, and ensuring seamless technological support for students, faculty, and staff. By guiding the IT department, Susan Contarino upholds Harper College's commitment to operational excellence and its mission within the Northwest Chicago Region. The Interim Chief Information Officer ensures continuity and supports strategic technology planning.