Palm Beach State College Executive and Leadership Team

Mohammed Ashara, the Chief Executive Officer at Palm Beach State College, directs the overarching strategic vision and institutional growth of the organization. Ashara architects long-term academic frameworks that align with regional workforce demands in Florida. By managing complex budgetary allocations and resource distribution, the Chief Executive Officer ensures the institution maintains high standards of educational quality. Mohammed Ashara collaborates with the Board to refine institutional policies, driving operational efficiency across all departments. This leadership role involves navigating the evolving landscape of higher education to secure sustainable funding and community partnerships. Through rigorous oversight of administrative functions, the Chief Executive Officer promotes a culture of accountability and student-centered success. Ashara maintains a focus on expanding access to degree programs, ensuring the college remains a cornerstone of professional development for the local community while fostering an environment conducive to lifelong learning and academic achievement.

Ava Parker, the President at Palm Beach State College, leads the institution's mission to provide accessible, high-quality education to the regional community. Parker architects strategic partnerships with local industries to ensure curriculum relevance and workforce readiness for graduates. By overseeing the executive cabinet, the President ensures alignment across all academic and administrative functions. Ava Parker drives institutional advocacy efforts, representing the college before state legislative bodies to secure necessary funding and support. This leadership role involves fostering a culture of innovation and student success, focusing on the expansion of bachelor's and associate degree programs. Through the management of campus-wide initiatives, the President promotes personal growth and professional development for the entire student body. Parker maintains a commitment to academic excellence, ensuring that the college remains a premier destination for higher education in Florida while continuously adapting to the changing needs of the modern workforce.

Riley Lavado, the President at Palm Beach State College, directs the operational execution of the college's academic mission and community engagement strategies. Lavado architects programs that enhance student support services, focusing on retention and graduation rates across diverse demographics. By managing the allocation of institutional resources, the President ensures that faculty have the necessary tools to deliver high-quality instruction. Riley Lavado drives the development of workforce training initiatives that respond directly to the economic needs of the region. This leadership role involves coordinating with external stakeholders and community leaders to expand the college's footprint and influence. Through the oversight of campus operations, the President maintains a safe and inclusive learning environment for all students. Lavado fosters a collaborative atmosphere among staff, ensuring that the institution remains dedicated to its core values of academic excellence and lifelong learning while navigating the complexities of the higher education landscape.

Stephen Joyner, the Campus Provost (President) and Dean - Palm Beach Gardens Campus at Palm Beach State College, directs all academic and administrative operations at the Palm Beach Gardens location. Joyner architects localized curriculum strategies that cater to the specific needs of the student population in that region. By overseeing faculty recruitment and student services, the Campus Provost (President) and Dean - Palm Beach Gardens Campus ensures that the campus maintains high standards of educational delivery. Stephen Joyner drives community outreach efforts, building relationships with local businesses to create internship and employment opportunities for students. This leadership role involves managing campus facilities and ensuring that resources are utilized efficiently to support student success. Through the coordination of academic programs, the Campus Provost (President) and Dean - Palm Beach Gardens Campus fosters an environment of personal growth and professional development, directly contributing to the overall mission of the college.

Amanda McFarlane, the President at Palm Beach State College, oversees the strategic implementation of academic policies and institutional growth initiatives. McFarlane architects programs that bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-world career application. By managing the college's external relations, the President strengthens ties with regional employers and educational partners. Amanda McFarlane drives the expansion of online learning options, ensuring that the institution remains accessible to a broad range of students. This leadership role involves analyzing institutional performance data to identify areas for improvement and innovation. Through the oversight of student affairs, the President promotes a supportive environment that encourages academic achievement and personal development. McFarlane maintains a focus on fiscal responsibility, ensuring that the college's resources are directed toward initiatives that provide the greatest impact on student success and workforce readiness within the competitive landscape of higher education in Florida.

Ronald Wong, the President at Palm Beach State College, directs the long-term planning and institutional development of the college. Wong architects initiatives that enhance the quality of degree programs and workforce training certificates. By overseeing the integration of new academic technologies, the President ensures that the institution remains relevant in a rapidly changing educational environment. Ronald Wong drives the college's commitment to student success by implementing comprehensive support systems and resources. This leadership role involves managing the college's reputation and ensuring that the institution remains a leader in higher education within the region. Through the coordination of administrative and academic departments, the President fosters a culture of excellence and continuous improvement. Wong maintains a focus on expanding educational access, ensuring that the college continues to serve as a vital resource for personal growth and professional development for the diverse community in Palm Beach County.

Russell Kaufman, the Chief Information Officer at Palm Beach State College, manages the digital infrastructure and technological ecosystem supporting thousands of students and faculty. Kaufman architects secure, scalable network solutions that facilitate seamless online learning and administrative operations. By implementing advanced cybersecurity protocols, the Chief Information Officer protects sensitive institutional data and maintains system integrity across all campuses. Russell Kaufman drives the integration of modern educational software, enhancing the digital classroom experience and streamlining student services. This leadership role requires constant coordination with academic departments to ensure technology aligns with pedagogical goals. Through the deployment of robust data analytics tools, the Chief Information Officer provides actionable insights that support institutional decision-making and student retention efforts. Kaufman oversees the modernization of campus hardware, ensuring that the college remains at the forefront of technological innovation within the higher education sector while supporting the broader mission of academic excellence.

Michael Pustizzi, the Chief Human Resources Officer at Palm Beach State College, directs talent acquisition, employee relations, and organizational development initiatives. Pustizzi architects comprehensive staffing strategies that attract experienced faculty and administrative professionals to the institution. By overseeing performance management systems and professional development programs, the Chief Human Resources Officer fosters a supportive work environment that encourages staff retention and growth. Michael Pustizzi manages complex labor relations and ensures institutional compliance with state and federal employment regulations. This leadership role involves collaborating with department heads to align human capital with the college's strategic objectives. Through the implementation of equitable compensation structures and benefits administration, the Chief Human Resources Officer supports the well-being of the entire workforce. Pustizzi drives initiatives that promote diversity and inclusion, ensuring the college maintains a vibrant, high-performing team capable of delivering exceptional educational services to the diverse student population served by the institution.