Howard County Council Executive and Leadership Team

Aj Fischer, the Executive VP, Administration Finance & Chief Financial Officer at Howard County Council, manages the fiscal health and administrative integrity of the institution. Overseeing budget development, financial reporting, and long-term capital planning, the Executive VP, Administration Finance & Chief Financial Officer ensures that resources are allocated to maximize educational impact. This leadership role involves maintaining rigorous financial controls and ensuring compliance with all regulatory requirements. By optimizing the financial structure, Aj Fischer directly impacts the affordability and sustainability of degree programs. Fischer coordinates with the board to align fiscal strategies with the overarching mission of the college. Through precise management of administrative and financial operations, the Executive VP, Administration Finance & Chief Financial Officer secures the economic foundation necessary for future expansion. This position requires a focus on fiscal responsibility and the ability to navigate complex economic environments to support institutional goals.

Joy Milfort, the Vice President of Cam and Chief Financial Officer at Howard County Council, directs the financial oversight of campus auxiliary services and institutional assets. Overseeing revenue generation from campus operations and managing cost-efficiency initiatives, the Vice President of Cam and Chief Financial Officer ensures that auxiliary departments contribute positively to the overall budget. This leadership role involves analyzing operational data to identify opportunities for cost reduction and service improvement. By refining the financial performance of campus services, Joy Milfort directly impacts the availability of funds for core academic programs. Milfort manages the integration of financial planning with operational needs to ensure consistent service delivery. Through strategic management of auxiliary finances, the Vice President of Cam and Chief Financial Officer supports the broader fiscal objectives of the institution. This position requires a focus on operational excellence and the ability to balance financial constraints with the need for high-quality student services.

Hesman Tall, the Chief Operating Officer at Howard County Council, directs all internal operational workflows to ensure the seamless delivery of educational services. Overseeing campus infrastructure and facility maintenance, the Chief Operating Officer optimizes resource allocation to support the diverse needs of the student body. This leadership role involves coordinating with academic departments to align physical space utilization with evolving curriculum requirements. By streamlining administrative processes, Hesman Tall directly impacts the efficiency of the institution. Tall manages complex logistical challenges while maintaining high standards for campus safety and accessibility. Through rigorous oversight of daily operations, the Chief Operating Officer secures the foundational stability necessary for academic growth. This position requires constant collaboration with other executive leaders to refine institutional policies and improve the overall campus experience for all students and faculty members within the Maryland community.

Daria Willis, the President at Howard County Council, provides the overarching vision and strategic direction for the entire institution. Overseeing the implementation of academic policies and community partnerships, the President ensures that the college remains a leader in accessible, career-focused education. This leadership role involves representing the institution to external stakeholders and fostering a culture of innovation and excellence. By setting the strategic agenda, Daria Willis directly impacts the growth and reputation of the college. Willis manages the executive team to ensure alignment across all departments, from finance to student services. Through decisive leadership, the President drives initiatives that expand educational opportunities and improve student outcomes. This position requires a commitment to the mission of the institution and the ability to navigate the complexities of higher education to ensure long-term success and community impact within the Maryland region.

Cindy Skalny, the District 5 Chief of Staff at Howard County Council, manages strategic communications and constituent relations to advance the mission of the organization. Overseeing the flow of information between the district office and the public, the Chief of Staff ensures transparency and effective engagement with local stakeholders. This leadership role involves coordinating legislative priorities and community outreach programs that support the educational goals of the institution. By facilitating productive dialogue, Cindy Skalny directly impacts the alignment of public policy with the needs of the student population. Skalny monitors regional developments to anticipate shifts in the educational landscape. Through proactive management of district affairs, the Chief of Staff maintains strong partnerships with community leaders. This position requires precise execution of administrative tasks to uphold the reputation of the council while driving initiatives that promote long-term institutional success and regional development.

Jane-Ellen Miller, the Interim Chief Information Officer at Howard County Council, architects the digital infrastructure required to support modern learning environments. Overseeing cybersecurity protocols and network reliability, the Interim Chief Information Officer ensures that all technological systems remain secure and accessible for students and faculty. This leadership role involves implementing innovative software solutions that enhance administrative efficiency and classroom engagement. By modernizing the digital framework, Jane-Ellen Miller directly impacts the technological capabilities of the institution. Miller manages the integration of new data management tools to support academic tracking and institutional reporting. Through strategic oversight of information technology, the Interim Chief Information Officer drives the digital transformation necessary for competitive educational delivery. This position requires constant vigilance regarding emerging cyber threats and a commitment to maintaining robust, scalable systems that facilitate seamless communication across the entire campus network.

Joseph Pettiford, the Chief Human Resources Officer at Howard County Council, directs talent acquisition and workforce development strategies to maintain a high-performing academic staff. Overseeing recruitment, benefits administration, and employee relations, the Chief Human Resources Officer ensures that the institution attracts and retains top-tier educators and support personnel. This leadership role involves fostering an inclusive workplace culture that aligns with the core values of the organization. By optimizing human capital management, Joseph Pettiford directly impacts the quality of instruction and student support services. Pettiford manages complex labor relations and professional development programs to enhance staff capabilities. Through strategic planning of personnel resources, the Chief Human Resources Officer supports the long-term growth and stability of the institution. This position requires a deep understanding of organizational behavior and a commitment to creating an environment where faculty and staff can thrive professionally.