Lone Star College Executive and Leadership Team

September, 2026

Leadership Overview

Lone Star College has 10 executives leading key functions including institutional strategy, operational management, financial administration, human resources, and campus technology.

Committed to academic excellence and community development, Lone Star College provides accessible higher education and workforce training to the northern Greater Houston area through innovative, student-centered learning environments.

Leadership Roles at Lone Star College

  • Finance Administration Vice Chancellor & Chief Financial Officer - Kristy Vienne
  • Chief Operating Officer - Cherry Sawyerr
  • Director, Operations & Chief Operating Officer, Office of - Joan Flores
  • Beta Lambda Mu Chapter President - Belsis Romero
  • President - DeReese Reid-Hart
  • President - Katherine Persson
  • Chief of Staff - Thomas Rhudy
  • Office of The Evc Operations Chief of Staff - Kaleigh VonDerVor
  • Chief Human Resources Officer - Douglas Vanbecelaere
  • Deputy Chief Information Officer, Campus Technology & Innovation - Brandon Green
  • Kristy Vienne - Finance Administration Vice Chancellor & Chief Financial Officer

    Kristy Vienne, the Finance Administration Vice Chancellor & Chief Financial Officer at Lone Star College, directs the fiscal strategy, budgeting, and financial reporting for the entire college system. Vienne oversees the allocation of public funds and tuition revenue to ensure the long-term financial health of the institution. By implementing rigorous internal controls and audit procedures, the Chief Financial Officer maintains transparency and accountability in all financial transactions. Kristy Vienne collaborates with the board and executive leadership to develop long-range financial plans that support academic expansion and infrastructure development. This role involves managing investment portfolios and debt obligations to maximize the impact of available resources. Through the application of advanced financial modeling, Vienne provides the data necessary for informed decision-making. The Chief Financial Officer ensures that the college remains fiscally responsible while continuing to provide affordable, high-quality education to the residents of the northern Greater Houston area.
    Kristy Vienne

    Cherry Sawyerr - Chief Operating Officer

    Cherry Sawyerr, the Chief Operating Officer at Lone Star College, directs the daily business functions and infrastructure requirements necessary to support a large-scale community college system. Sawyerr oversees facility management, campus safety protocols, and auxiliary services to ensure a secure and productive environment for students and faculty. By streamlining operational processes, the Chief Operating Officer improves service delivery across all campuses in the Greater Houston region. Cherry Sawyerr evaluates logistical challenges and implements scalable solutions that enhance the overall campus experience. This leadership position involves close coordination with financial and academic departments to align physical resources with educational goals. Through the optimization of operational workflows, Sawyerr reduces overhead costs while maintaining high-quality standards for campus facilities. The Chief Operating Officer remains focused on long-term sustainability, ensuring that the infrastructure of the college supports future growth and the diverse needs of the student population.

    Joan Flores - Director, Operations & Chief Operating Officer, Office of

    Joan Flores, the Director, Operations & Chief Operating Officer, Office of at Lone Star College, manages the operational integrity of the executive office and coordinates cross-departmental projects. Flores oversees the implementation of administrative policies that govern daily operations, ensuring that all activities support the strategic objectives of the college. By analyzing operational data, the Chief Operating Officer identifies opportunities for process improvement and resource optimization. Joan Flores facilitates communication between the executive leadership and campus-level administrators to ensure consistent application of institutional standards. This role requires a deep understanding of the college's business model and the ability to manage complex logistical requirements. Through the coordination of administrative functions, Flores enhances the overall efficiency of the institution. The Chief Operating Officer remains dedicated to maintaining high operational standards, ensuring that the college continues to provide accessible and effective educational services to the northern Greater Houston area.
    Joan Flores

    Belsis Romero - Beta Lambda Mu Chapter President

    Belsis Romero, the Beta Lambda Mu Chapter President at Lone Star College, leads student engagement initiatives and fosters leadership development within the campus community. Romero coordinates chapter activities, organizes community service projects, and represents student interests to the college administration. By facilitating networking opportunities and academic support programs, the Chapter President enhances the student experience and promotes institutional pride. Belsis Romero manages chapter resources and ensures that all activities align with the values and mission of the college. This leadership role involves mentoring fellow students and encouraging participation in campus governance. Through the promotion of collaborative projects, Romero strengthens the connection between the student body and the broader community. The Chapter President remains committed to creating an inclusive environment where students can thrive academically and personally, contributing to the overall success and reputation of the college in the Greater Houston area.

    DeReese Reid-Hart - President

    DeReese Reid-Hart, the President at Lone Star College, provides the overarching vision and strategic direction for the campus, ensuring alignment with the institutional mission of academic excellence. Reid-Hart oversees all academic programs, student services, and community partnerships to drive student success and workforce readiness. By fostering a culture of innovation and inclusivity, the President creates an environment where faculty and students can excel. DeReese Reid-Hart engages with local industry leaders to develop curriculum that meets the evolving demands of the regional economy. This leadership role involves managing the campus budget and advocating for resources that support institutional growth. Through the implementation of strategic initiatives, Reid-Hart enhances the reputation of the college as a premier provider of higher education. The President remains dedicated to expanding access to learning opportunities, ensuring that the college continues to serve as a vital resource for the northern Greater Houston area.

    Katherine Persson - President

    Katherine Persson, the President at Lone Star College, directs the strategic operations and academic mission of the campus, focusing on student retention and completion rates. Persson oversees the development of specialized programs that address the unique educational needs of the local community. By building strong relationships with regional stakeholders, the President secures the partnerships necessary to support workforce development initiatives. Katherine Persson manages the campus leadership team, ensuring that all departments work collaboratively to achieve institutional goals. This role involves monitoring academic performance metrics and implementing evidence-based strategies to improve student outcomes. Through the promotion of a supportive learning environment, Persson drives the success of the student body. The President remains committed to the core mission of the college, ensuring that the institution provides high-quality, accessible education that empowers individuals and strengthens the economy of the northern Greater Houston area.

    Thomas Rhudy - Chief of Staff

    Thomas Rhudy, the Chief of Staff at Lone Star College, coordinates executive communications and aligns administrative priorities with the broader institutional mission. Rhudy manages the flow of information between the chancellor and various departments to ensure efficient decision-making processes across the college system. By facilitating cross-functional collaboration, the Chief of Staff supports the implementation of strategic initiatives that enhance student success and institutional effectiveness. Thomas Rhudy monitors progress on key performance indicators, providing the leadership team with actionable insights to optimize resource allocation. This role requires constant engagement with internal stakeholders to maintain organizational cohesion throughout the northern Greater Houston area. Through rigorous oversight of administrative workflows, Rhudy drives operational excellence and ensures that the college remains responsive to the evolving needs of the community. The Chief of Staff maintains high standards of accountability, fostering a culture of transparency and continuous improvement within the executive office.

    Kaleigh VonDerVor - Office of The Evc Operations Chief of Staff

    Kaleigh VonDerVor, the Office of The Evc Operations Chief of Staff at Lone Star College, manages the operational agenda for the executive vice chancellor. VonDerVor facilitates the execution of strategic projects and ensures that departmental goals align with the overarching mission of the college. By organizing complex administrative tasks, the Chief of Staff enables the executive team to focus on high-level policy development and institutional growth. Kaleigh VonDerVor tracks project timelines and resource utilization to ensure that all operational objectives meet established deadlines. This role involves frequent interaction with campus leadership to resolve bottlenecks and improve communication channels. Through the application of data-driven management techniques, VonDerVor enhances the efficiency of the executive office. The Chief of Staff provides critical support for the implementation of academic and administrative policies, ensuring that the college maintains its commitment to providing high-quality education across the northern Greater Houston area.

    Douglas Vanbecelaere - Chief Human Resources Officer

    Douglas Vanbecelaere, the Chief Human Resources Officer at Lone Star College, architects the talent acquisition, professional development, and employee relations strategies for the entire institution. Vanbecelaere oversees the recruitment of high-caliber faculty and staff, ensuring that the workforce remains aligned with the educational mission of the college. By implementing comprehensive benefits programs and performance management systems, the Chief Human Resources Officer fosters a supportive and inclusive work environment. Douglas Vanbecelaere manages labor relations and compliance with state and federal regulations to mitigate institutional risk. This leadership role involves collaborating with department heads to identify staffing needs and develop training initiatives that promote career advancement. Through the modernization of human resources technology, Vanbecelaere improves administrative efficiency and employee engagement. The Chief Human Resources Officer drives organizational culture, ensuring that the college attracts and retains the talent necessary to serve the diverse student body effectively.

    Brandon Green - Deputy Chief Information Officer, Campus Technology & Innovation

    Brandon Green, the Deputy Chief Information Officer, Campus Technology & Innovation at Lone Star College, architects the digital infrastructure and technological advancements that support modern learning environments. Green oversees the deployment of campus-wide software systems, network security, and innovative classroom technologies. By integrating new digital tools, the Deputy Chief Information Officer enhances the accessibility and quality of educational delivery across all campuses. Brandon Green manages the IT staff and coordinates with academic departments to ensure that technology solutions meet the specific needs of students and faculty. This role involves evaluating emerging technologies to maintain the college's competitive edge in the education sector. Through the implementation of robust cybersecurity measures, Green protects institutional data and ensures the reliability of digital services. The Deputy Chief Information Officer drives innovation, ensuring that the college remains at the forefront of technological integration in higher education.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Lone Star College Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Lone Star College?
    Lone Star College is led by Kristy Vienne (Finance Administration Vice Chancellor & Chief Financial Officer), along with executives such as Cherry Sawyerr (Chief Operating Officer) and Joan Flores (Director, Operations & Chief Operating Officer, Office of).
    Who is part of Lone Star College’s executive team?
    The executive team of Lone Star College includes leaders such as Kristy Vienne (Finance Administration Vice Chancellor & Chief Financial Officer), Cherry Sawyerr (Chief Operating Officer), Joan Flores (Director, Operations & Chief Operating Officer, Office of) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Lone Star College have?
    Lone Star College has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Lone Star College’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Lone Star College includes roles such as Finance Administration Vice Chancellor & Chief Financial Officer, Chief Operating Officer, Director, Operations & Chief Operating Officer, Office of, Beta Lambda Mu Chapter President, President.