Hartnell College Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

Hartnell College has 6 executives leading key functions including administration, strategy, and operations.

Driven by a commitment to accessible education, Hartnell College empowers students across the Salinas Valley to achieve their academic and career aspirations through diverse programs and robust support services, fostering community growth and individual success.

Leadership Roles at Hartnell College

  • Vice Administrative Assistant, To President Information Technology Resources & Facilities Events Coordinator - Joanne Pleak
  • President - Christine Svendsen
  • President, The Real Estate Investors Club - Alan Yanez
  • President - Manuel Silva
  • President - Kelly Locke
  • Superintendent and President - Michael Gutierrez
  • 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 critical administrative functions supporting presidential directives and operational efficiency. This role involves coordinating essential information technology resources and overseeing facilities event logistics, ensuring seamless execution of campus activities and administrative processes. Pleak's oversight extends to supporting the President's information technology initiatives, contributing to the college's technological advancement and resource allocation. The coordination of facilities events requires meticulous planning and execution, aligning with Hartnell College's mission to provide accessible and supportive learning environments. Joanne Pleak's responsibilities are integral to maintaining the smooth operation of administrative and event-related services, directly impacting the student and staff experience across the Salinas Valley campuses. This position demands a high level of organizational skill and attention to detail, crucial for supporting the multifaceted needs of the college's leadership and operational infrastructure.

    Christine Svendsen - President

    Christine Svendsen, the President at Hartnell College, directs the overarching strategy and vision for the institution, guiding its mission to empower students in the Salinas Valley. Svendsen's leadership focuses on enhancing academic program offerings, ensuring the college remains accessible and affordable for diverse student populations, including adult learners and international students. This executive role involves fostering key relationships with community stakeholders, driving initiatives like the Salinas Promise and Zero Textbook Cost programs to reduce barriers to education. Christine Svendsen oversees the allocation of resources to support student success through comprehensive services such as financial aid, counseling, and tutoring. The President's strategic direction is crucial for expanding the college's reach and impact across its multiple campuses. Svendsen's commitment to educational excellence and student achievement shapes the college's operational priorities and long-term development, solidifying Hartnell College's position as a vital educational resource.

    Alan Yanez - President, The Real Estate Investors Club

    Alan Yanez, the President, The Real Estate Investors Club, leads strategic initiatives focused on investment and development within the real estate sector. This role involves identifying market opportunities, fostering investor relations, and guiding portfolio growth. Yanez's leadership drives the club's objectives, emphasizing sound investment principles and market analysis to achieve financial returns. The position requires a deep understanding of real estate economics and market trends, enabling informed decision-making for club members. Alan Yanez's focus is on cultivating a robust network of investors and facilitating collaborative investment strategies. This leadership position is dedicated to advancing the club's mission through proactive engagement and strategic planning in the competitive real estate landscape. Yanez's efforts are central to the club's ongoing success and expansion within the investment community.

    Manuel Silva - President

    Manuel Silva, the President at Hartnell College, spearheads the strategic direction and operational management of the institution, reinforcing its commitment to serving the Salinas Valley community. Silva's leadership prioritizes the expansion and enhancement of academic programs, ensuring they align with evolving industry demands and student career aspirations. This executive position involves cultivating a supportive learning environment through comprehensive student services, including academic advising, career counseling, and financial aid programs. Manuel Silva oversees the college's financial health and resource allocation, ensuring the sustainability of initiatives like the Zero Textbook Cost courses and the Salinas Promise. Silva's vision extends to strengthening community partnerships and increasing educational accessibility for all learners. The President's role is fundamental to advancing Hartnell College's mission of empowering individuals through affordable and high-quality education across its various campuses.

    Kelly Locke - President

    Kelly Locke, the President at Hartnell College, directs the strategic vision and operational execution for the institution, reinforcing its role as a cornerstone of education in the Salinas Valley. Locke's leadership emphasizes enhancing student access and success through innovative academic pathways and robust support systems. This executive role involves overseeing the development and delivery of diverse degree and certificate programs, catering to a broad spectrum of learners, from high school students to adult professionals. Kelly Locke is instrumental in fostering a culture of academic excellence and affordability, championing initiatives that reduce educational barriers. The President's responsibilities include managing institutional resources, driving campus development across multiple locations, and strengthening community engagement. Locke's strategic guidance ensures Hartnell College continues to empower students to achieve their educational and career objectives effectively.

    Michael Gutierrez - Superintendent and President

    Michael Gutierrez, the Superintendent and President at Hartnell College, provides comprehensive leadership, guiding the institution's strategic direction and operational oversight to serve the Salinas Valley community effectively. Gutierrez's dual role encompasses both the administrative leadership of the college and its overall educational mission, ensuring a cohesive approach to student success and institutional growth. This executive position focuses on enhancing academic program quality, expanding access to higher education, and promoting affordability through initiatives like the Salinas Promise and Zero Textbook Cost courses. Michael Gutierrez oversees the allocation of resources to support a wide array of student services, including financial aid, counseling, and tutoring, crucial for empowering diverse student populations. Gutierrez's leadership drives the college's commitment to empowering students to achieve their educational and career goals across its multiple campuses, solidifying its impact on regional development.

    Explore Leadership Teams in Colleges & Universities

    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Hartnell College Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Hartnell College?
    Hartnell College is led by Joanne Pleak (Vice Administrative Assistant, To President Information Technology Resources & Facilities Events Coordinator), along with executives such as Christine Svendsen (President) and Alan Yanez (President, The Real Estate Investors Club).
    Who is part of Hartnell College’s executive team?
    The executive team of Hartnell College includes leaders such as Joanne Pleak (Vice Administrative Assistant, To President Information Technology Resources & Facilities Events Coordinator), Christine Svendsen (President), Alan Yanez (President, The Real Estate Investors Club) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Hartnell College have?
    Hartnell College has 6 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 Vice Administrative Assistant, To President Information Technology Resources & Facilities Events Coordinator, President, President, The Real Estate Investors Club, President, President.