Houston Community College Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

Houston Community College has 10 executives leading key functions including finance, technology, operations, and academic leadership.

Driven by a commitment to accessible education, Houston Community College empowers diverse communities through comprehensive learning opportunities, fostering economic development and personal growth across the region.

Leadership Roles at Houston Community College

  • Chief Financial Officer - Kevin Lovinggood
  • Deputy Chancellor and Chief Operating Officer - Catherine Guerrero
  • President - James King
  • President, HCC Foundation - Karen Schmidt
  • President - Lutricia Harrison
  • President, Southwest College - Fena Garza
  • President - John Hart
  • Faculty Senate President - Desmond Lewis
  • Chief Technology Officer - Susan Hopper
  • General Counsel & Chief Legal Officer - Nicole Montgomery
  • Kevin Lovinggood - Chief Financial Officer

    Kevin Lovinggood, the Chief Financial Officer at Houston Community College, directs all fiscal operations and financial strategy. Overseeing budgeting, accounting, and financial planning, Lovinggood ensures the fiscal health and sustainability of the institution. This leadership role involves managing institutional investments, securing funding, and optimizing resource allocation to support educational programs and strategic initiatives across the college system. By maintaining robust financial controls and reporting, Kevin Lovinggood drives accountability and transparency in all financial dealings, directly impacting the college's ability to serve its students and community effectively. The Chief Financial Officer's oversight extends to financial compliance with state and federal regulations, safeguarding institutional assets and fostering long-term financial stability for Houston Community College.

    Catherine Guerrero - Deputy Chancellor and Chief Operating Officer

    Catherine Guerrero, the Deputy Chancellor and Chief Operating Officer at Houston Community College, manages the day-to-day operational functions of the entire college system. Overseeing administrative services, facilities management, human resources, and strategic planning implementation, Guerrero ensures efficient and effective institutional operations. This leadership position involves coordinating cross-departmental initiatives, optimizing resource utilization, and driving operational excellence across all campuses and service areas. By aligning operational strategies with the college's educational mission, Catherine Guerrero directly supports the delivery of high-quality academic programs and student services. The Deputy Chancellor and Chief Operating Officer's focus on operational efficiency and strategic execution is vital for Houston Community College's continued growth and its commitment to serving the diverse needs of the Houston metropolitan area.

    James King - President

    James King, the President at Houston Community College, leads a significant academic division, driving educational strategy and student success within a key college area. Overseeing academic programs, faculty development, and student support services, King ensures the delivery of high-quality educational experiences. This role involves fostering an environment of academic excellence, promoting innovative teaching methodologies, and enhancing student retention and graduation rates. By championing educational initiatives and aligning them with institutional goals, James King directly contributes to the college's mission of empowering students through accessible learning. The President's leadership is instrumental in shaping the academic landscape of their designated college, ensuring it meets the evolving needs of students and the workforce in the Houston region.

    Karen Schmidt - President, HCC Foundation

    Karen Schmidt, the President, HCC Foundation at Houston Community College, spearheads fundraising and resource development efforts to support the college's mission. Overseeing philanthropic initiatives, donor relations, and strategic partnerships, Schmidt secures vital funding for scholarships, programs, and capital projects. This leadership role involves cultivating relationships with alumni, community leaders, and corporate partners to advance the foundation's financial capacity. By driving successful fundraising campaigns, Karen Schmidt directly enhances Houston Community College's ability to provide educational opportunities and support student success. The President of the HCC Foundation's dedication to resource generation is crucial for expanding the college's reach and impact across the community.

    Lutricia Harrison - President

    Lutricia Harrison, the President at Houston Community College, directs academic and operational strategies for a major college campus. Overseeing faculty, staff, and student affairs, Harrison ensures the effective delivery of educational programs and student support services. This leadership position involves fostering a vibrant campus community, promoting academic rigor, and enhancing student engagement and outcomes. By implementing institutional policies and driving campus-specific initiatives, Lutricia Harrison directly supports Houston Community College's overarching mission. The President's commitment to educational excellence and student development is vital for the success of the campus and its contribution to the college's regional impact.

    Fena Garza - President, Southwest College

    Fena Garza, the President, Southwest College at Houston Community College, leads the strategic direction and operational management of a key college campus. Overseeing academic departments, student services, and community outreach, Garza ensures the delivery of high-quality education tailored to the Southwest Houston region. This role involves fostering faculty collaboration, enhancing student learning experiences, and building strong community partnerships to meet local workforce demands. By championing innovative educational approaches and student support systems, Fena Garza directly contributes to the college's mission of accessibility and success. The President of Southwest College's leadership is critical in advancing the campus's educational offerings and its role within the broader Houston Community College system.

    John Hart - President

    John Hart, the President at Houston Community College, oversees a significant academic division, driving educational excellence and student achievement. Managing academic programs, faculty recruitment, and student support initiatives, Hart ensures the effective implementation of the college's educational mission. This leadership role involves fostering a culture of continuous improvement, promoting innovative pedagogical practices, and enhancing student retention and completion rates. By aligning campus operations with institutional objectives, John Hart directly supports Houston Community College's commitment to providing accessible and impactful learning opportunities. The President's strategic vision and operational oversight are crucial for the success of their designated college and its contribution to the community's educational advancement.

    Desmond Lewis - Faculty Senate President

    Desmond Lewis, the Faculty Senate President at Houston Community College, represents the collective voice and interests of the faculty across the institution. Advocating for faculty development, academic freedom, and pedagogical innovation, Lewis collaborates with administration to enhance the educational environment. This leadership position involves facilitating communication between faculty and college leadership, ensuring faculty perspectives inform institutional decision-making. By championing faculty welfare and academic standards, Desmond Lewis directly contributes to the quality of education and student success at Houston Community College. The Faculty Senate President's role is vital in fostering a collaborative and supportive academic community.

    Susan Hopper - Chief Technology Officer

    Susan Hopper, the Chief Technology Officer at Houston Community College, architects and executes the institution's technology vision. Overseeing all IT infrastructure, digital learning platforms, and cybersecurity measures, Hopper ensures robust and secure technological operations. This critical role involves driving innovation in educational technology, enhancing student and faculty access to digital resources, and supporting the college's digital transformation efforts. By managing the development and implementation of advanced IT solutions, Susan Hopper directly supports the college's mission of providing accessible and effective education. The Chief Technology Officer's strategic direction ensures that Houston Community College remains at the forefront of technological advancements in higher education, fostering an environment conducive to learning and operational efficiency.
    Nicole Montgomery, the General Counsel & Chief Legal Officer at Houston Community College, provides comprehensive legal counsel and oversees all legal affairs for the institution. Managing risk assessment, compliance, and litigation, Montgomery ensures adherence to all applicable laws and regulations governing higher education. This critical role involves advising leadership on legal matters, drafting and reviewing contracts, and developing institutional policies to mitigate legal exposure. By safeguarding the college's legal interests, Nicole Montgomery directly supports its operational integrity and strategic objectives. The General Counsel & Chief Legal Officer's expertise is essential for navigating the complex legal landscape and protecting Houston Community College's assets and reputation.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Houston Community College Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Houston Community College?
    Houston Community College is led by Kevin Lovinggood (Chief Financial Officer), along with executives such as Catherine Guerrero (Deputy Chancellor and Chief Operating Officer) and James King (President).
    Who is part of Houston Community College’s executive team?
    The executive team of Houston Community College includes leaders such as Kevin Lovinggood (Chief Financial Officer), Catherine Guerrero (Deputy Chancellor and Chief Operating Officer), James King (President) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Houston Community College have?
    Houston Community College has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Houston Community College’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Houston Community College includes roles such as Chief Financial Officer, Deputy Chancellor and Chief Operating Officer, President, President, HCC Foundation, President.