Technical Institute Executive and Leadership Team

Rashelle Penley, the Vice President, Finance & Chief Financial Officer at Technical Institute, manages the fiscal health and budgetary planning for the entire institution. Overseeing the allocation of resources for healthcare, trades, and college transfer programs, the Vice President, Finance & Chief Financial Officer ensures financial sustainability while supporting academic growth. Rashelle Penley directs the development of long-term financial models that account for regional market shifts and educational demands. By monitoring revenue streams and operational expenditures, the Chief Financial Officer maintains the stability required to provide high-quality student services and academic advising. This role involves constant collaboration with the Board to align fiscal policy with the overarching mission of workforce development. Through meticulous oversight of institutional assets, Penley secures the necessary funding to expand campus facilities and improve student outcomes across all North Carolina operations.

Dawn Donovan, the SGA President at Technical Institute, represents the student body and advocates for initiatives that enhance the campus experience for high school students and adult learners. By facilitating communication between students and the administration, the SGA President ensures that academic advising, counseling, and student services remain responsive to community needs. Dawn Donovan organizes events and programs that foster a sense of belonging and academic engagement across the Hudson and Boone campuses. This leadership role involves gathering feedback from diverse student groups to inform institutional improvements and policy adjustments. By championing student interests, the SGA President directly influences the quality of the educational environment and the effectiveness of support resources. Through active participation in campus governance, Donovan promotes a culture of inclusivity and career readiness, ensuring that the student voice remains central to the strategic development of the institution.

Mark Poarch, the President at Technical Institute, architects the overarching vision and strategic direction for the entire institution. Overseeing the delivery of diverse educational programs including healthcare and trades, the President drives the mission of fostering academic achievement and career readiness for all community members. Mark Poarch manages relationships with external stakeholders and regional partners to expand the reach of workforce development initiatives. By setting institutional priorities and guiding the executive team, the President ensures that academic advising and student services remain aligned with the evolving needs of the local economy. This leadership role involves navigating the complexities of higher education to maintain high standards of excellence across the Hudson and Boone campuses. Through a commitment to innovation and student-centered growth, Poarch secures the long-term impact of the college as a vital resource for professional development and community advancement.

John Chaffin, the Chief of Staff at Technical Institute, directs administrative operations and coordinates cross-departmental initiatives to ensure institutional efficiency. By managing internal communications and aligning departmental goals with the broader mission of the college, Chaffin facilitates seamless collaboration between academic units and support services. This leadership role involves overseeing complex projects that enhance student resources and workforce development programs. John Chaffin maintains rigorous standards for operational excellence while supporting the executive team in executing long-term strategic objectives. Through the optimization of internal processes, the Chief of Staff strengthens the capacity of the institution to serve adult learners and community members effectively. By bridging the gap between administrative planning and daily campus activities, Chaffin ensures that all resources remain focused on student success and career readiness across the Hudson and Boone locations.