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. By aligning academic offerings with regional labor market demands, the Chief Executive Officer ensures that the college remains a primary driver of economic mobility within the community. Brendan Mathews manages high-level partnerships with industry leaders to expand vocational training opportunities and student internship programs. Overseeing the long-term financial health of the institution, the Chief Executive Officer implements rigorous fiscal policies that support campus infrastructure and technological advancements. This leadership role requires constant collaboration with the Board to maintain accreditation standards and institutional integrity. Through the optimization of administrative workflows, the Chief Executive Officer enhances operational efficiency across all departments. By prioritizing student-centered outcomes, the Chief Executive Officer secures the future of the college as a premier educational provider in the state.

Robert Deegan, the President at Palomar College, oversees the daily academic operations and faculty development initiatives that define the student experience. By fostering a culture of pedagogical innovation, the President ensures that curriculum standards meet the evolving needs of diverse learners. Robert Deegan coordinates with department chairs to refine degree pathways and certificate programs, directly impacting student retention and graduation rates. The President manages the integration of digital learning tools to support hybrid educational models across the campus. Through active engagement with the academic senate, the President facilitates shared governance and policy development. This leadership role involves monitoring enrollment trends to adjust course scheduling and resource allocation effectively. By championing inclusive learning environments, the President strengthens the academic reputation of the institution. Ultimately, the President drives the mission of providing high-quality, accessible education to the broader regional population.

Ivan Mondragon, the Co-founder and President - Latinos In STEM at Palomar College, architects specialized programs designed to increase representation and success in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics fields. By building robust mentorship networks, the Co-founder and President - Latinos In STEM connects students with industry professionals to bridge the gap between classroom learning and career readiness. Ivan Mondragon manages outreach initiatives that target underrepresented demographics, ensuring equitable access to advanced technical training. The Co-founder and President - Latinos In STEM collaborates with corporate partners to secure funding for laboratory equipment and research grants. This leadership role involves designing workshops that enhance technical proficiency and professional development for the student body. By analyzing data on student performance in STEM courses, the Co-founder and President - Latinos In STEM identifies areas for curriculum improvement. Through these efforts, the Co-founder and President - Latinos In STEM expands the pipeline of skilled graduates entering the regional workforce.

Tina Recalde, the Interim Superintendent and President at Palomar College, manages the administrative stability and regulatory compliance of the entire college district. By overseeing the implementation of state-mandated educational policies, the Interim Superintendent and President ensures that all campus operations adhere to legal and ethical standards. Tina Recalde directs the allocation of public funding to support essential student services and facility maintenance. The Interim Superintendent and President coordinates with local government entities to align institutional goals with regional development plans. This leadership role requires balancing immediate operational needs with the long-term sustainability of the college. By facilitating communication between the administration and the faculty union, the Interim Superintendent and President maintains a productive working environment. Through the rigorous oversight of campus safety and administrative protocols, the Interim Superintendent and President protects the interests of the entire college community while preparing the institution for future leadership transitions.