Tacoma Community College Executive and Leadership Team

Jim Crabbe, the Special Assitant To the President at Tacoma Community College, provides critical support for executive decision-making and long-term planning. Crabbe researches institutional trends and prepares data-driven reports that inform presidential policy. By managing special projects, the Special Assitant To the President ensures that the college meets its strategic objectives regarding regional workforce development. Jim Crabbe facilitates communication between the president and external partners to strengthen community ties across the Kitsap Peninsula. This role involves analyzing complex educational challenges and proposing actionable solutions that align with the mission of the college. Through careful coordination of presidential priorities, the Special Assitant To the President enhances the overall impact of the institution. Crabbe monitors progress on key initiatives to ensure accountability and transparency. By providing expert guidance on administrative matters, the Special Assitant To the President supports the growth and sustainability of the college.

Ivan Harrell, the President at Tacoma Community College, directs the overall academic vision and institutional strategy for the campus. Harrell oversees the implementation of programs that expand access to higher education for students in the Tacoma area. By fostering partnerships with local industries, the President ensures that the curriculum remains relevant to regional economic needs. Ivan Harrell leads the executive team in developing policies that promote student retention and academic achievement. This role involves managing the financial health of the institution while advocating for increased funding and community support. Through visionary leadership, the President guides the college toward achieving its long-term goals of equity and excellence. Harrell maintains a focus on inclusive learning environments that serve the diverse population of Pierce County. By prioritizing innovation in teaching and learning, the President strengthens the reputation of the college as a leader in community-based education.

Carleton Opgaard, the President at Tacoma Community College, focuses on the historical development and foundational growth of the institution. Opgaard manages the expansion of campus facilities and infrastructure to accommodate the increasing student population in the Kitsap Peninsula. By overseeing the integration of new academic departments, the President ensures that the college maintains a comprehensive range of educational offerings. Carleton Opgaard leads efforts to secure grants and philanthropic support that enhance the quality of student services. This role involves collaborating with the board of trustees to establish governance standards that protect the long-term interests of the college. Through strategic oversight of campus resources, the President supports the creation of modern learning environments. Opgaard drives initiatives that promote faculty development and academic rigor. By maintaining a commitment to the core mission of the college, the President ensures that the institution remains a cornerstone of the local community.

David Howard, the President at Tacoma Community College, leads the operational transformation and modernization of the college systems. Howard oversees the adoption of new technologies that improve student registration, financial aid processing, and digital learning platforms. By focusing on operational efficiency, the President ensures that the college maximizes its impact on the Tacoma community. David Howard coordinates with academic deans to align course offerings with current labor market demands. This role involves managing the institutional budget to ensure that resources support both student success and faculty needs. Through proactive leadership, the President addresses the challenges of a changing educational landscape. Howard drives the development of new programs that cater to non-traditional students and lifelong learners. By fostering a culture of continuous improvement, the President strengthens the ability of the college to serve the diverse needs of the region. This leadership role remains essential for maintaining institutional excellence.

Judy Colarusso, the Chief of Staff at Tacoma Community College, manages high-level administrative workflows and coordinates cross-departmental initiatives. Colarusso facilitates communication between the executive office and internal stakeholders to ensure alignment with institutional goals. By streamlining operational processes, the Chief of Staff supports the broader mission of providing quality education to the Tacoma and Kitsap Peninsula communities. Judy Colarusso oversees the implementation of strategic projects that enhance campus efficiency and institutional effectiveness. This role requires constant collaboration with academic leadership to address evolving educational needs. Through rigorous oversight of daily operations, the Chief of Staff maintains organizational stability. Colarusso drives initiatives that improve resource allocation and institutional performance. By managing complex administrative tasks, the Chief of Staff enables the college to focus on student outcomes and community engagement. This leadership position remains vital for maintaining the operational integrity of the institution.