Tacoma Community College Executive and Leadership Team

August, 2026

Leadership Overview

Tacoma Community College has 5 executives leading key functions including strategy, operations, and administration.

Dedicated to fostering educational advancement, Tacoma Community College empowers students across Pierce County and the Kitsap Peninsula with accessible, high-quality learning opportunities, driving community growth through comprehensive academic programs and workforce development.

Leadership Roles at Tacoma Community College

  • President - Ivan Harrell
  • Special Assitant To the President - Jim Crabbe
  • President - David Howard
  • President - Carleton Opgaard
  • Chief of Staff - Judy Colarusso
  • Ivan Harrell - President

    Ivan Harrell, the President at Tacoma Community College, drives the overall strategic vision and institutional direction. Overseeing all academic and administrative operations, Ivan Harrell ensures the college fulfills its mission of providing accessible, high-quality education. This leadership position involves fostering strong relationships with community stakeholders, government officials, and educational partners to advance the college's impact. By championing innovation and student-centered learning, Ivan Harrell directly contributes to the growth and development of Pierce County and the Kitsap Peninsula. The President's role encompasses fiscal oversight, resource allocation, and the cultivation of a diverse and inclusive campus environment. Ivan Harrell's commitment is to enhance educational opportunities and workforce readiness for all students.
    Ivan Harrell

    Jim Crabbe - Special Assitant To the President

    Jim Crabbe, the Special Assitant To the President at Tacoma Community College, provides direct support and strategic counsel to the President. This role involves managing key projects, conducting research, and preparing reports to facilitate informed decision-making. Jim Crabbe assists in coordinating institutional priorities and ensuring effective communication across leadership levels. By streamlining administrative processes and supporting special initiatives, Jim Crabbe enhances the operational capacity of the President's office. The Special Assitant To the President's responsibilities include liaising with external partners and representing the college in specific engagements. Jim Crabbe's contributions are integral to advancing the college's strategic objectives and maintaining its commitment to educational excellence.

    David Howard - President

    David Howard, the President at Tacoma Community College, leads the institution's strategic direction and operational execution. Overseeing all facets of college operations, David Howard ensures the delivery of comprehensive educational programs and services to the community. This executive role involves cultivating partnerships with local industries and community organizations to enhance student outcomes and workforce development. By championing academic excellence and student support, David Howard directly advances the college's mission. The President's responsibilities include fiscal management, resource development, and fostering an inclusive learning environment. David Howard's leadership focuses on expanding access to higher education and empowering individuals through learning.

    Carleton Opgaard - President

    Carleton Opgaard, the President at Tacoma Community College, directs the institution's strategic vision and operational framework. Overseeing all academic and administrative functions, Carleton Opgaard ensures the college effectively serves its student population and community. This leadership position involves fostering external relationships with governmental bodies and industry leaders to support college initiatives. By promoting innovation in teaching and learning, Carleton Opgaard directly contributes to the educational advancement of the region. The President's duties encompass financial oversight, strategic planning, and cultivating a culture of continuous improvement. Carleton Opgaard's dedication is to enhance educational access and opportunity for all residents of Pierce County and beyond.

    Judy Colarusso - Chief of Staff

    Judy Colarusso, the Chief of Staff at Tacoma Community College, directs strategic initiatives and operational alignment across the institution. Overseeing critical administrative functions, Judy Colarusso ensures seamless execution of the college's mission. This leadership role involves managing key projects and facilitating communication between executive leadership and various departments. By optimizing internal processes, Judy Colarusso directly supports the college's commitment to providing accessible education. Judy Colarusso's focus remains on enhancing institutional efficiency and fostering a collaborative environment that supports student success and community engagement. The Chief of Staff's responsibilities extend to advising the President on policy matters and ensuring adherence to institutional goals. This position is vital for maintaining the operational integrity of Tacoma Community College.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Tacoma Community College Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Tacoma Community College?
    Tacoma Community College is led by Ivan Harrell (President), along with executives such as Jim Crabbe (Special Assitant To the President) and David Howard (President).
    Who is part of Tacoma Community College’s executive team?
    The executive team of Tacoma Community College includes leaders such as Ivan Harrell (President), Jim Crabbe (Special Assitant To the President), David Howard (President) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Tacoma Community College have?
    Tacoma Community College has 5 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Tacoma Community College’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Tacoma Community College includes roles such as President, Special Assitant To the President, President, President, Chief of Staff.