Jefferson College Executive and Leadership Team

August, 2026

Leadership Overview

Jefferson College has 4 executives leading key functions including governance, institutional strategy, regional academic administration, and executive leadership.

Committed to academic excellence and community development, Jefferson College provides diverse transfer programs and technical career training to empower students and support regional economic growth through customized business education.

Leadership Roles at Jefferson College

  • President Board of Trustees - Margaret Passmore
  • President - Dena McCaffrey
  • District President, The Central (East) - Joseph Pappas
  • President - Raymond Cummiskey
  • Margaret Passmore - President Board of Trustees

    Margaret Passmore, the President Board of Trustees at Jefferson College, directs the governance framework and policy oversight for the institution. By maintaining fiscal accountability and institutional integrity, the President Board of Trustees ensures alignment with the educational mission established in 1963. Margaret Passmore facilitates high-level decision-making processes, collaborating with other board members to approve strategic initiatives that expand technical career programs and continuing education offerings. This leadership role involves monitoring institutional performance metrics to guarantee long-term sustainability across the Missouri campus network. Through rigorous oversight of administrative policies, the President Board of Trustees safeguards the interests of students and faculty alike. By fostering transparent communication between the board and executive leadership, Passmore drives the institutional vision forward. Ultimately, the President Board of Trustees secures the foundational stability required for the college to deliver high-quality academic programs and industry-specific training to the broader regional community.
    Margaret Passmore

    Dena McCaffrey - President

    Dena McCaffrey, the President at Jefferson College, architects the overarching strategic vision and operational execution for the entire institution. Overseeing academic affairs and student success initiatives, the President ensures that transfer programs and technical career pathways meet evolving industry standards. Dena McCaffrey manages complex institutional budgets and resource allocation to optimize the delivery of customized business and industry training. This leadership role requires constant engagement with external stakeholders and regional partners to expand the college's market reach. By aligning internal departments with the core mission of accessible education, the President fosters an environment of continuous improvement and innovation. McCaffrey drives the implementation of new educational technologies and curriculum enhancements that directly impact student outcomes. Through proactive management of institutional growth, the President secures the college's position as a vital educational hub in Missouri, ensuring that all academic and vocational programs remain relevant to the needs of the modern workforce.
    Dena McCaffrey

    Joseph Pappas - District President, The Central (East)

    Joseph Pappas, the District President, The Central (East) at Jefferson College, directs regional academic operations and community engagement initiatives across the central and eastern sectors. Overseeing the implementation of specialized technical programs, the District President, The Central (East) ensures that local industry training needs receive adequate support and resources. Joseph Pappas coordinates with faculty and administrative staff to maintain high standards of instruction within these specific geographic zones. This leadership role involves identifying emerging market trends and adapting academic offerings to support regional economic development. By fostering strong relationships with local business leaders, the District President, The Central (East) creates pathways for student internships and career placement. Pappas drives the expansion of continuing education opportunities, ensuring that the college remains a primary resource for professional development. Through effective management of regional assets, the District President, The Central (East) strengthens the overall institutional footprint and enhances the accessibility of high-quality education for the surrounding population.

    Raymond Cummiskey - President

    Raymond Cummiskey, the President at Jefferson College, executes long-term institutional planning and manages the administrative infrastructure supporting the college's diverse academic portfolio. Focusing on the expansion of transfer programs and the refinement of technical career curricula, the President ensures that all educational services align with the institution's historical commitment to excellence. Raymond Cummiskey collaborates with the board and executive team to secure funding and resources for campus infrastructure projects. This leadership role involves overseeing the integration of customized business training into the broader academic framework to meet the demands of regional employers. By prioritizing student-centered policies, the President fosters a culture of academic rigor and professional growth. Cummiskey drives initiatives that enhance the college's reputation as a leader in continuing education and vocational training. Through strategic oversight of institutional operations, the President ensures that the college remains a cornerstone of the Missouri educational landscape, consistently delivering value to students and the local community.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Jefferson College Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Jefferson College?
    Jefferson College is led by Margaret Passmore (President Board of Trustees), along with executives such as Dena McCaffrey (President) and Joseph Pappas (District President, The Central (East)).
    Who is part of Jefferson College’s executive team?
    The executive team of Jefferson College includes leaders such as Margaret Passmore (President Board of Trustees), Dena McCaffrey (President), Joseph Pappas (District President, The Central (East)) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Jefferson College have?
    Jefferson College has 4 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Jefferson College’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Jefferson College includes roles such as President Board of Trustees, President, District President, The Central (East), President.