Howard County Council Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

Howard County Council has 4 executives leading key functions including operations, finance, human resources, and institutional leadership.

Driven by a commitment to accessible education, Howard County Council provides career-focused degree and certificate programs, empowering students with affordable pathways to in-demand professions and fostering regional economic growth through skilled workforce development.

Leadership Roles at Howard County Council

  • Vice President of Cam and Chief Financial Officer - Joy Milfort
  • Chief Operating Officer - Hesman Tall
  • President - Daria Willis
  • Chief Human Resources Officer - Joseph Pettiford
  • Joy Milfort - Vice President of Cam and Chief Financial Officer

    Joy Milfort, the Vice President of Cam and Chief Financial Officer at Howard County Council, manages all financial operations and strategic fiscal planning. Overseeing the college's budget, investments, and financial reporting, the Vice President of Cam and Chief Financial Officer ensures fiscal responsibility and sustainability. This leadership role involves developing financial strategies that support the college's commitment to affordable, career-oriented programs and its expansion into in-demand fields. By guiding financial resource allocation and managing capital expenditures, Joy Milfort directly contributes to the college's ability to offer high-quality education. Ultimately, Milfort safeguards the institution's financial health and enables its long-term strategic objectives through astute financial oversight.

    Hesman Tall - Chief Operating Officer

    Hesman Tall, the Chief Operating Officer at Howard County Council, directs all institutional operations and resource management. Overseeing daily campus functions, the Chief Operating Officer ensures efficient delivery of educational services and maintains the operational integrity of facilities. This leadership role involves optimizing administrative processes and implementing strategic initiatives to support the college's mission of providing affordable, career-focused education. By managing departmental workflows and resource allocation, Hesman Tall directly impacts the college's ability to serve its student population effectively. Ultimately, Tall secures operational excellence and supports the college's growth objectives through robust management practices.

    Daria Willis - President

    Daria Willis, the President at Howard County Council, provides overarching strategic direction and institutional leadership. Guiding the college's vision and mission, the President ensures the delivery of high-quality, affordable, career-focused educational programs. This executive role involves fostering external partnerships, representing the institution within the community, and driving initiatives that enhance student success and workforce development. By setting institutional priorities and overseeing all major strategic endeavors, Daria Willis directly shapes the college's impact on regional economic growth and educational accessibility. Ultimately, Willis champions the college's commitment to innovation and excellence in higher education.
    Daria Willis

    Joseph Pettiford - Chief Human Resources Officer

    Joseph Pettiford, the Chief Human Resources Officer at Howard County Council, leads all human capital management and organizational development initiatives. Overseeing talent acquisition, employee relations, and benefits administration, the Chief Human Resources Officer cultivates a supportive and productive work environment. This leadership role involves developing HR strategies that align with the college's mission to provide accessible, career-focused education and attract skilled educators. By championing employee engagement and professional development programs, Joseph Pettiford directly enhances the institution's capacity to deliver exceptional educational experiences. Ultimately, Pettiford ensures a robust and motivated workforce, critical to the college's ongoing success and commitment to its students.

    Explore Leadership Teams in Colleges & Universities

    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Howard County Council Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Howard County Council?
    Howard County Council is led by Joy Milfort (Vice President of Cam and Chief Financial Officer), along with executives such as Hesman Tall (Chief Operating Officer) and Daria Willis (President).
    Who is part of Howard County Council’s executive team?
    The executive team of Howard County Council includes leaders such as Joy Milfort (Vice President of Cam and Chief Financial Officer), Hesman Tall (Chief Operating Officer), Daria Willis (President) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Howard County Council have?
    Howard County Council has 4 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Howard County Council’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Howard County Council includes roles such as Vice President of Cam and Chief Financial Officer, Chief Operating Officer, President, Chief Human Resources Officer.