Midland College Executive and Leadership Team

June, 2026

Leadership Overview

Midland College has 4 executives leading key functions including finance, administration, and institutional leadership.

Driven by a commitment to student success, Midland College provides diverse academic programs and essential support services, fostering educational and career advancement within the community and beyond.

Leadership Roles at Midland College

  • Vice President - Administrative Services and Chief Financial Officer - Rick Bender
  • President - Stephen Thomas
  • President - Damon Kennedy
  • Immediate President, Chair - Will Green
  • Rick Bender - Vice President - Administrative Services and Chief Financial Officer

    Rick Bender, the Vice President - Administrative Services and Chief Financial Officer at Midland College, directs the institution's financial operations and administrative services. Overseeing budget management, financial planning, and resource allocation, Bender ensures fiscal responsibility across all academic and operational departments. This leadership role involves managing financial reporting, compliance, and the strategic deployment of capital to support Midland College's mission of providing accessible education and workforce training. Bender's oversight extends to administrative functions critical for institutional efficiency, including facilities management and operational support. By maintaining robust financial controls and driving administrative effectiveness, Rick Bender directly contributes to the college's stability and its capacity to serve students, faculty, and the wider community. The financial strategies implemented by Bender are integral to sustaining the diverse range of academic programs and student enrichment initiatives offered by Midland College.

    Stephen Thomas - President

    Stephen Thomas, the President at Midland College, provides strategic direction and executive leadership for the entire institution. Guiding the college's vision and operational framework, Thomas ensures alignment with its mission to offer diverse academic programs and comprehensive support services. This role involves fostering collaborations with universities to enhance transfer pathways and championing initiatives that enrich student experiences through athletics, clubs, and community engagement. Thomas's leadership focuses on supporting students in achieving their educational and career aspirations, particularly for military and first-generation college students. By overseeing the implementation of academic support, continuing education, and workforce training programs, Stephen Thomas drives the college's impact on student success and community development. The President's strategic oversight is crucial for maintaining Midland College's commitment to educational excellence and accessibility.

    Damon Kennedy - President

    Damon Kennedy, the President at Midland College, spearheads the institution's overarching strategic objectives and operational execution. This leadership position involves cultivating an environment conducive to academic excellence and student achievement across a broad spectrum of programs, from arts and business to health sciences and technology. Kennedy's focus includes enhancing the college's role in workforce training and continuing education, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for their chosen careers. The President also champions initiatives that enrich student life, such as athletics and community programs, reinforcing Midland College's commitment to holistic student development. By fostering key partnerships and resource development, Damon Kennedy drives the college's capacity to serve its diverse student body, including veterans and community members. The strategic vision set forth by Kennedy is fundamental to Midland College's ongoing mission of providing accessible, high-quality education.
    Damon Kennedy

    Will Green - Immediate President, Chair

    Will Green, the Immediate President, Chair at Midland College, provides critical leadership and governance oversight for the institution. This role involves guiding the board's strategic direction and ensuring the college effectively fulfills its mission of offering diverse academic programs and essential support services. Green's responsibilities include fostering an environment that supports student success, from degree and certificate programs to workforce training and continuing education. The Chair's influence is vital in maintaining strong community and university collaborations, facilitating transfer pathways and enriching student experiences through various campus activities. By overseeing institutional effectiveness and strategic planning, Will Green ensures Midland College remains a cornerstone for educational and career advancement within the region. This leadership position is instrumental in upholding the college's commitment to serving students, faculty, and the broader community.

    Explore Leadership Teams in Colleges & Universities

    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Midland College Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Midland College?
    Midland College is led by Rick Bender (Vice President - Administrative Services and Chief Financial Officer), along with executives such as Stephen Thomas (President) and Damon Kennedy (President).
    Who is part of Midland College’s executive team?
    The executive team of Midland College includes leaders such as Rick Bender (Vice President - Administrative Services and Chief Financial Officer), Stephen Thomas (President), Damon Kennedy (President) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Midland College have?
    Midland College has 4 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Midland College’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Midland College includes roles such as Vice President - Administrative Services and Chief Financial Officer, President, President, Immediate President, Chair.