Palm Beach State College Executive and Leadership Team

June, 2026

Leadership Overview

Palm Beach State College has 8 executives leading key functions including strategy, information technology, human resources, and campus operations.

Driven by academic excellence, Palm Beach State College provides a supportive learning environment, experienced faculty, and a variety of resources to help students achieve their educational and career goals, fostering personal growth and lifelong learning across Florida.

Leadership Roles at Palm Beach State College

  • Chief Executive Officer - Mohammed Ashara
  • President - Amanda McFarlane
  • President - Ronald Wong
  • President - David Drinkwater
  • President - Ava Parker
  • Campus Provost (President) and Dean - Palm Beach Gardens Campus - Stephen Joyner
  • Chief Information Officer - Russell Kaufman
  • Chief Human Resources Officer - Michael Pustizzi
  • Mohammed Ashara - Chief Executive Officer

    Mohammed Ashara, the Chief Executive Officer at Palm Beach State College, directs the overarching strategic vision and institutional direction. Ashara guides the college's commitment to academic excellence and student success, ensuring alignment with the educational needs of Palm Beach County. This leadership role involves fostering a supportive learning environment and overseeing the development of diverse degree and certificate programs. By driving institutional growth and enhancing the college's market position within Florida's higher education landscape, Mohammed Ashara ensures Palm Beach State College remains a premier institution for personal growth and professional development.

    Amanda McFarlane - President

    Amanda McFarlane, the President at Palm Beach State College, provides executive leadership and strategic direction for the institution. McFarlane champions the college's commitment to academic excellence and student success, overseeing the delivery of diverse degree and certificate programs. This leadership role involves fostering a supportive learning environment and ensuring the college meets the evolving educational needs of the Palm Beach County community. By driving institutional growth and enhancing the college's reputation, Amanda McFarlane ensures Palm Beach State College remains a vital resource for personal growth and lifelong learning.

    Ronald Wong - President

    Ronald Wong, the President at Palm Beach State College, directs the strategic vision and operational execution of the institution. Wong oversees the college's commitment to academic excellence and student success, ensuring a comprehensive range of degree and certificate programs are available. This leadership position is crucial for maintaining a supportive learning environment and fostering professional development for students across Florida. By driving institutional advancement and expanding access to higher education, Ronald Wong ensures Palm Beach State College effectively serves its vibrant community.
    Ronald Wong

    David Drinkwater - President

    David Drinkwater, the President at Palm Beach State College, leads the institution's strategic initiatives and academic programming. Drinkwater is dedicated to fostering student success and providing a supportive learning environment across all campuses. This role involves overseeing the development and delivery of diverse degree and certificate programs, aligning with the workforce needs of Palm Beach County. By championing educational innovation and community engagement, David Drinkwater ensures Palm Beach State College continues its legacy of promoting personal growth and lifelong learning.

    Ava Parker - President

    Ava Parker, the President at Palm Beach State College, drives the institution's strategic direction and commitment to academic excellence. Parker ensures a robust offering of degree and certificate programs, supporting student success and career readiness throughout Florida. This leadership position cultivates a supportive learning environment and fosters professional development opportunities. By advancing the college's mission and expanding its reach, Ava Parker strengthens Palm Beach State College's role as a cornerstone for lifelong learning and community advancement.
    Ava Parker

    Stephen Joyner - Campus Provost (President) and Dean - Palm Beach Gardens Campus

    Stephen Joyner, the Campus Provost (President) and Dean - Palm Beach Gardens Campus at Palm Beach State College, directs campus-specific operations and academic oversight. Joyner ensures the Palm Beach Gardens campus provides a high-quality educational experience, supporting student success and faculty development. This role involves managing campus resources and fostering a vibrant learning community tailored to regional needs. By leading campus initiatives and enhancing local program delivery, Stephen Joyner contributes significantly to the college's overall mission of academic excellence and workforce training.

    Russell Kaufman - Chief Information Officer

    Russell Kaufman, the Chief Information Officer at Palm Beach State College, architects the institution's technology infrastructure and digital strategy. Kaufman oversees the implementation and management of all information systems, ensuring robust and secure technological resources support academic programs and administrative functions. This critical role involves driving innovation in educational technology and enhancing the online learning experience for students across Florida. By optimizing IT operations and safeguarding data integrity, Russell Kaufman ensures Palm Beach State College leverages technology effectively to foster student success and operational efficiency.
    Russell Kaufman

    Michael Pustizzi - Chief Human Resources Officer

    Michael Pustizzi, the Chief Human Resources Officer at Palm Beach State College, leads all human capital management initiatives. Pustizzi develops and executes strategies for talent acquisition, employee development, and organizational culture, ensuring a skilled and motivated workforce. This position is vital for maintaining a supportive learning environment and attracting experienced faculty. By fostering positive employee relations and implementing effective HR policies, Michael Pustizzi supports the college's mission of academic excellence and student success across its multiple campuses and online platforms.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Palm Beach State College Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Palm Beach State College?
    Palm Beach State College is led by Mohammed Ashara (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Amanda McFarlane (President) and Ronald Wong (President).
    Who is part of Palm Beach State College’s executive team?
    The executive team of Palm Beach State College includes leaders such as Mohammed Ashara (Chief Executive Officer), Amanda McFarlane (President), Ronald Wong (President) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Palm Beach State College have?
    Palm Beach State College has 8 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Palm Beach State College’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Palm Beach State College includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, President, President, President, President.