Harrisburg Area Community College Executive and Leadership Team

John Sygielski, the President & Chief Executive Officer at Harrisburg Area Community College, directs the overarching institutional vision and strategic growth initiatives. Overseeing the entire academic ecosystem, the President & Chief Executive Officer ensures alignment between educational offerings and regional workforce demands. This leadership role involves constant collaboration with the Board to maintain accreditation standards and fiscal health. By championing student-centered policies, John Sygielski drives the expansion of online instruction and off-site learning locations across Central Pennsylvania. Sygielski manages complex stakeholder relationships to secure the long-term viability of the institution. Through rigorous assessment of institutional performance, the President & Chief Executive Officer optimizes resource allocation to support diverse student populations. This executive leadership ensures that the college remains a cornerstone of regional development while adapting to the evolving landscape of higher education in the United States.

Saleem Hirani, the Vice President, Finance & Chief Financial Officer at Harrisburg Area Community College, directs all fiscal planning, budgeting, and financial reporting activities. Overseeing the allocation of institutional funds, the Vice President, Finance & Chief Financial Officer ensures that financial resources align with the strategic priorities of the college. This leadership role involves managing audits, investment strategies, and long-term financial sustainability. By analyzing economic trends within the education sector, Saleem Hirani provides the necessary data to support informed decision-making by the executive team. Hirani maintains strict compliance with regulatory requirements and financial standards to protect the integrity of the institution. Through prudent fiscal management, the Vice President, Finance & Chief Financial Officer secures the capital required for campus improvements and technological advancements. This financial leadership supports the overall mission of providing affordable, high-quality education to the diverse student population served by the college.

Judy Schmidt, the Chief Operating Officer at Harrisburg Area Community College, manages the daily administrative functions and infrastructure requirements across all campuses. Overseeing facility maintenance and operational logistics, the Chief Operating Officer ensures that the physical and digital learning environments meet the needs of the student body. This leadership role involves streamlining internal processes to improve institutional efficiency and service delivery. By coordinating with department heads, Judy Schmidt executes operational strategies that support the broader mission of the college. Schmidt monitors campus safety protocols and resource distribution to maintain high standards of service. Through the implementation of data-driven operational improvements, the Chief Operating Officer facilitates a seamless experience for faculty and students alike. This executive focus on operational excellence allows the institution to maintain a robust presence throughout the Central Pennsylvania region while supporting the academic goals of the entire community.

Kirsten Milunic, the President at Harrisburg Area Community College, leads specific academic divisions and fosters partnerships that enhance the educational experience. Overseeing curriculum development and faculty engagement, the President ensures that academic programs remain relevant to current industry standards. This leadership role involves promoting student success through innovative teaching methods and support services. By collaborating with regional employers, Kirsten Milunic drives initiatives that bridge the gap between classroom learning and career readiness. Milunic evaluates program effectiveness to ensure that all offerings meet the rigorous criteria set by The Middle States Commission on Higher Education. Through the cultivation of a supportive academic culture, the President empowers faculty to deliver high-quality instruction across all campuses and online platforms. This executive focus on academic excellence directly impacts the ability of the college to prepare students for the competitive workforce within the Central Pennsylvania region.