Hartnell College Executive and Leadership Team

August, 2026

Leadership Overview

Hartnell College has 5 executives leading key functions including real estate investment strategy, academic administration, information technology coordination, institutional leadership, and campus operations.

Committed to academic excellence and student success, Hartnell College provides accessible education and career pathways to diverse populations across the Salinas Valley through innovative programs and comprehensive support services.

Leadership Roles at Hartnell College

  • President, The Real Estate Investors Club - Alan Yanez
  • President - Manuel Silva
  • Vice Administrative Assistant, To President Information Technology Resources & Facilities Events Coordinator - Joanne Pleak
  • President - Christine Svendsen
  • President - Kelly Locke
  • Alan Yanez - President, The Real Estate Investors Club

    Alan Yanez, the President, The Real Estate Investors Club at Hartnell College, directs strategic initiatives focused on property acquisition and investment education. By managing the financial portfolio of the club, the President, The Real Estate Investors Club ensures alignment with the broader educational mission of the institution. This leadership role involves coordinating workshops for students interested in real estate markets across the Western United States. Alan Yanez facilitates partnerships with local industry professionals to provide practical insights into property management and development. Through these efforts, the President, The Real Estate Investors Club fosters a culture of financial literacy and career readiness. By optimizing resource allocation for club activities, the President, The Real Estate Investors Club supports the long-term economic goals of the student body. This position remains vital for connecting academic theory with real-world investment opportunities within the regional community.

    Manuel Silva - President

    Manuel Silva, the President at Hartnell College, oversees the comprehensive academic and administrative functions of the institution. As the primary executive, the President drives the implementation of the Salinas Promise and expands access to Zero Textbook Cost courses. Manuel Silva manages the institutional budget and ensures that all academic programs meet the diverse needs of students throughout the Salinas Valley. By collaborating with the Board of Trustees, the President establishes long-term goals for student retention and graduation rates. This leadership role requires constant engagement with faculty and staff to maintain high standards of instructional quality. Through the oversight of campus infrastructure and student support services, the President secures the operational stability of the college. By championing affordability and accessibility, the President directly influences the educational outcomes of the entire student population while fostering strong community partnerships across the region.

    Joanne Pleak - Vice Administrative Assistant, To President Information Technology Resources & Facilities Events Coordinator

    Joanne Pleak, the Vice Administrative Assistant, To President Information Technology Resources & Facilities Events Coordinator at Hartnell College, manages the complex intersection of technical infrastructure and campus event logistics. The Vice Administrative Assistant, To President Information Technology Resources & Facilities Events Coordinator coordinates the deployment of information technology resources to support academic departments and administrative offices. By overseeing facility scheduling, the Vice Administrative Assistant, To President Information Technology Resources & Facilities Events Coordinator ensures that all campus events align with institutional priorities. Joanne Pleak facilitates communication between the President and the IT department to streamline digital operations. This role involves maintaining high-level oversight of facility usage to maximize the efficiency of campus spaces. By integrating technology with event management, the Vice Administrative Assistant, To President Information Technology Resources & Facilities Events Coordinator supports the seamless delivery of educational services across all regional campuses.

    Christine Svendsen - President

    Christine Svendsen, the President at Hartnell College, directs the strategic expansion of academic programs and student support services. Focusing on the development of international student initiatives, the President ensures that the college remains a competitive destination for global learners. Christine Svendsen manages the integration of financial aid and counseling services to improve student accessibility. By leading cross-departmental teams, the President fosters an environment of continuous improvement in teaching and learning. This leadership role involves analyzing market trends to align degree offerings with regional workforce demands. Through the oversight of institutional policies, the President maintains compliance and promotes a culture of equity. By driving initiatives that support adult learners and high school students, the President strengthens the overall impact of the college. This position remains essential for maintaining the reputation of the institution as a leader in community-based higher education.

    Kelly Locke - President

    Kelly Locke, the President at Hartnell College, manages the external relations and community engagement strategies of the institution. By cultivating relationships with local businesses and government entities, the President secures funding and internship opportunities for the student body. Kelly Locke oversees the development of career-focused certificates that address specific industry needs within the Salinas Valley. This leadership role requires the President to represent the college at regional forums and educational conferences. By coordinating with academic deans, the President ensures that curriculum development reflects current market requirements. Through the implementation of outreach programs, the President increases the visibility of the college among diverse populations. By optimizing the connection between the institution and the local economy, the President supports the career advancement of students. This role remains critical for sustaining the growth and relevance of the college in a rapidly evolving educational landscape.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Hartnell College Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Hartnell College?
    Hartnell College is led by Alan Yanez (President, The Real Estate Investors Club), along with executives such as Manuel Silva (President) and Joanne Pleak (Vice Administrative Assistant, To President Information Technology Resources & Facilities Events Coordinator).
    Who is part of Hartnell College’s executive team?
    The executive team of Hartnell College includes leaders such as Alan Yanez (President, The Real Estate Investors Club), Manuel Silva (President), Joanne Pleak (Vice Administrative Assistant, To President Information Technology Resources & Facilities Events Coordinator) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Hartnell College have?
    Hartnell College has 5 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Hartnell College’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Hartnell College includes roles such as President, The Real Estate Investors Club, President, Vice Administrative Assistant, To President Information Technology Resources & Facilities Events Coordinator, President, President.