Palomar College Executive and Leadership Team

Brendan Mathews, the Chief Executive Officer at Palomar College, directs the overarching strategic vision and institutional growth of the organization. Mathews manages high-level partnerships and ensures the alignment of academic offerings with regional workforce demands. By overseeing fiscal health and long-term planning, the Chief Executive Officer maintains the stability of the college. Brendan Mathews coordinates with the board to implement policies that enhance student outcomes and campus infrastructure. This leadership role involves navigating complex regulatory environments while fostering an inclusive educational culture. Through the optimization of administrative processes, the Chief Executive Officer drives operational efficiency across all departments. Mathews prioritizes the expansion of community engagement initiatives to strengthen the presence of the institution within the broader California educational landscape. Ultimately, the Chief Executive Officer secures the future of the college by championing innovation in curriculum development and student support services.

Tina Recalde, the Interim Superintendent and President at Palomar College, manages daily academic operations and faculty relations during this transitional period. Recalde oversees the implementation of instructional programs and ensures compliance with state educational standards. By facilitating communication between the faculty senate and administrative staff, the Interim Superintendent and President maintains institutional continuity. Tina Recalde directs the assessment of student learning outcomes to refine academic pathways and certificate programs. This leadership role involves addressing immediate operational challenges while supporting the long-term goals of the college. Through the coordination of departmental resources, the Interim Superintendent and President enhances the quality of classroom instruction. Recalde monitors enrollment trends to adjust course offerings effectively. By fostering a collaborative environment, the Interim Superintendent and President supports the professional development of staff members. Ultimately, Recalde ensures the delivery of high-quality education to the diverse student body served by the institution.

Star Rivera-Lacey, the Superintendent and President at Palomar College, architects the comprehensive mission and academic framework of the institution. Rivera-Lacey drives initiatives focused on student equity, access, and completion rates across all degree programs. By overseeing the executive cabinet, the Superintendent and President ensures the seamless integration of student services and academic affairs. Star Rivera-Lacey manages external relations with local government and industry partners to expand career training opportunities. This leadership role involves setting the tone for campus culture and promoting a commitment to lifelong learning. Through the strategic allocation of resources, the Superintendent and President supports the modernization of campus facilities and technology. Rivera-Lacey evaluates institutional performance metrics to guide continuous improvement efforts. By championing diversity and inclusion, the Superintendent and President strengthens the community impact of the college. Ultimately, Rivera-Lacey leads the institution toward achieving its vision of academic excellence and regional workforce development.

Robert Deegan, the President at Palomar College, oversees the execution of institutional policies and the advancement of the college mission. Deegan directs the development of strategic partnerships that connect students with local industry leaders and transfer institutions. By managing the administrative hierarchy, the President ensures that all departments operate in alignment with the core values of the college. Robert Deegan facilitates the growth of certificate programs designed to meet the evolving needs of the California economy. This leadership role involves representing the institution in public forums and advocating for increased educational funding. Through the oversight of campus safety and student welfare initiatives, the President maintains a supportive learning environment. Deegan monitors the effectiveness of academic support services to improve retention rates. By fostering a culture of accountability, the President drives the success of the entire campus community. Ultimately, Deegan secures the reputation of the college as a premier provider of community-based education.