Maine Community College System Executive and Leadership Team

Karen Normandin, the President at Maine Community College System, leads strategic initiatives focused on expanding workforce training and degree accessibility. Overseeing institutional growth, the President architects partnerships with local businesses to align curriculum with regional economic demands. This leadership role involves managing academic programs that support recent high school graduates and adult learners alike. By fostering community engagement, Karen Normandin ensures the system remains a vital resource for economic development throughout Maine. The President also collaborates with the board to secure funding and resources for campus infrastructure improvements. Through the implementation of student-centered policies, the President drives initiatives that increase graduation rates and career readiness. Ultimately, the President maintains the academic integrity and financial stability of the institution, ensuring that the system continues to provide affordable and accessible education to all residents across the state.

Ande Smith, the President at Maine Community College System, directs the operational expansion of certificate programs and vocational training. Overseeing the delivery of specialized education, the President architects programs that bridge the gap between academic instruction and industry requirements. This leadership role involves managing regional outreach efforts to ensure that diverse populations across Maine gain access to essential skill-building opportunities. By prioritizing student support services, Ande Smith enhances the overall educational landscape and promotes long-term career success. The President also coordinates with external stakeholders to advocate for policies that strengthen the role of community colleges in the state economy. Through the continuous evaluation of program effectiveness, the President drives improvements in instructional quality and student outcomes. Ultimately, the President secures the necessary resources to sustain the mission of providing high-quality, accessible education to the entire Maine community.

David Daigler, the President at Maine Community College System, oversees the overarching strategic vision and long-term sustainability of the entire academic network. Managing the system-wide mission, the President architects policies that promote affordability and accessibility for all students. This leadership role involves representing the system at the state level to influence educational policy and secure necessary legislative support. By championing community engagement, David Daigler ensures that the system remains responsive to the evolving needs of Maine businesses and individuals. The President also leads efforts to integrate new technologies and pedagogical methods that improve student retention and academic achievement. Through the alignment of institutional goals with state economic objectives, the President drives growth and innovation across all locations. Ultimately, the President maintains the high standards of the system, ensuring that every student receives the support required to succeed in the modern workforce.

Barbara Owen, the Chief Human Resources Officer at Maine Community College System, directs all talent acquisition and organizational development strategies. Managing the workforce needs for 17,500 students, the Chief Human Resources Officer architects comprehensive recruitment frameworks to attract top-tier academic and administrative talent. This leadership role involves overseeing employee relations, benefits administration, and professional development programs across all regional locations. By aligning human capital with the broader educational mission, Barbara Owen ensures the system maintains a high-performing environment. The Chief Human Resources Officer also collaborates with department heads to implement equitable hiring practices that support the diverse needs of the Maine community. Through strategic workforce planning, the Chief Human Resources Officer optimizes operational efficiency and fosters a culture of excellence. Ultimately, the Chief Human Resources Officer secures the human infrastructure necessary for the long-term success of the entire academic system.

Darren Yocum, the Chief Information Officer, Enterprise Applications at Maine Community College System, manages the digital architecture supporting all academic and administrative functions. Overseeing the integration of enterprise software, the Chief Information Officer, Enterprise Applications ensures seamless access to online courses and student services. This leadership role involves modernizing data systems to enhance the learning experience for 17,500 students across the state. By implementing robust cybersecurity protocols and scalable cloud solutions, Darren Yocum protects institutional data while driving digital transformation. The Chief Information Officer, Enterprise Applications also coordinates with faculty to deploy advanced educational technologies that facilitate remote and hybrid learning. Through the optimization of enterprise applications, the Chief Information Officer, Enterprise Applications improves operational agility and data-driven decision-making. Ultimately, the Chief Information Officer, Enterprise Applications maintains the technological foundation required for the system to deliver accessible and high-quality education.