Waubonsee Community College Executive and Leadership Team

September, 2026

Leadership Overview

Waubonsee Community College has 7 executives leading key functions including strategy, board governance, student organization leadership, administrative operations, and institutional legacy.

Committed to academic excellence and regional accessibility, Waubonsee Community College empowers students through diverse educational pathways and community-focused programs across the western suburbs of Chicago.

Leadership Roles at Waubonsee Community College

  • President - Brian Knetl
  • Executive Administrative Coordinator To the President and Clerk of the Board - Mary Baccheschi
  • Club Founder and President - Ashley Hatcher
  • Administrative Specialist Office of the President - Kevin Farmer
  • Secretary & President, Office of - Ronna Jones
  • President Emeritus - Christine Sobek
  • President Emeritus - John Swalec
  • Brian Knetl - President

    Brian Knetl, the President at Waubonsee Community College, directs the overarching strategic vision and academic mission of the institution. Overseeing all campus operations across the western suburbs of Chicago, the President ensures alignment between educational programming and regional workforce demands. This leadership role involves constant collaboration with the Board to maintain institutional accreditation and fiscal health. By fostering partnerships with local industry leaders, Brian Knetl expands student opportunities and enhances the college's reputation for excellence. The President manages complex administrative structures to support faculty development and student success initiatives. Through rigorous oversight of academic standards, the President drives continuous improvement across all four campuses. Ultimately, the President secures the long-term viability of the college by championing inclusive learning environments and innovative curriculum design that addresses the evolving needs of the diverse student population served by the institution.

    Mary Baccheschi - Executive Administrative Coordinator To the President and Clerk of the Board

    Mary Baccheschi, the Executive Administrative Coordinator To the President and Clerk of the Board at Waubonsee Community College, manages the complex intersection of executive communication and institutional governance. Coordinating the flow of information between the President and the Board, the Executive Administrative Coordinator To the President and Clerk of the Board ensures strict adherence to regulatory compliance and meeting protocols. This role involves organizing high-level agendas and maintaining official records for the institution. By facilitating seamless interactions between leadership and external stakeholders, Mary Baccheschi supports the efficient execution of board directives. The Executive Administrative Coordinator To the President and Clerk of the Board monitors administrative workflows to optimize office productivity. Through meticulous attention to detail, the Executive Administrative Coordinator To the President and Clerk of the Board safeguards the integrity of institutional decision-making processes, ensuring that all governance activities align with the broader mission of the college.

    Ashley Hatcher - Club Founder and President

    Ashley Hatcher, the Club Founder and President at Waubonsee Community College, architects student-led initiatives that enrich the campus experience and foster community engagement. Overseeing the development of extracurricular programming, the Club Founder and President drives student participation in academic and social organizations. This leadership role involves managing club budgets, recruiting members, and coordinating events that align with the college's mission of holistic student development. By bridging the gap between student interests and institutional resources, Ashley Hatcher enhances the vibrancy of the campus culture. The Club Founder and President collaborates with faculty advisors to ensure that all activities meet college standards and promote professional growth. Through active outreach and event planning, the Club Founder and President cultivates a sense of belonging among the student body. This leadership role directly impacts student retention by providing meaningful opportunities for leadership and collaboration within the diverse community.

    Kevin Farmer - Administrative Specialist Office of the President

    Kevin Farmer, the Administrative Specialist Office of the President at Waubonsee Community College, executes critical operational support functions that maintain the efficiency of the executive office. Managing daily administrative workflows, the Administrative Specialist Office of the President ensures that the President has the necessary resources to address institutional priorities. This role involves processing sensitive documentation, scheduling complex meetings, and serving as a primary point of contact for internal and external inquiries. By streamlining communication channels, Kevin Farmer enables the executive team to focus on strategic initiatives and long-term planning. The Administrative Specialist Office of the President monitors office budgets and supply procurement to ensure fiscal responsibility. Through proactive problem-solving and organizational management, the Administrative Specialist Office of the President supports the smooth functioning of the college's leadership hub, ultimately contributing to the overall effectiveness of the administrative team in serving the student population.

    Ronna Jones - Secretary & President, Office of

    Ronna Jones, the Secretary & President, Office of at Waubonsee Community College, manages the essential clerical and administrative functions that sustain the executive office's daily operations. Overseeing the maintenance of official records and correspondence, the Secretary & President, Office of ensures that all administrative tasks meet institutional standards for accuracy and confidentiality. This role involves coordinating schedules and facilitating communication between the President and various campus departments. By organizing the flow of information, Ronna Jones supports the executive team in executing strategic goals and maintaining operational continuity. The Secretary & President, Office of handles complex administrative inquiries and provides support for high-level meetings. Through diligent record-keeping and process management, the Secretary & President, Office of ensures that the executive office remains a reliable resource for the entire college community, thereby facilitating the successful implementation of institutional policies and programs.

    Christine Sobek - President Emeritus

    Christine Sobek, the President Emeritus at Waubonsee Community College, provides historical perspective and strategic counsel to the current leadership team. Drawing upon years of institutional knowledge, the President Emeritus supports the college's ongoing commitment to academic excellence and community service. This role involves advising on long-term initiatives and maintaining relationships with key stakeholders who have shaped the institution's growth. By offering guidance on complex challenges, Christine Sobek helps ensure that current strategies remain consistent with the college's foundational values. The President Emeritus participates in select institutional events and serves as an ambassador for the college's mission within the broader region. Through this advisory capacity, the President Emeritus contributes to the continuity of leadership and the preservation of the college's legacy. This role remains vital for maintaining the institutional culture and fostering a sense of stability as the college continues to evolve and expand its educational impact.
    Christine Sobek

    John Swalec - President Emeritus

    John Swalec, the President Emeritus at Waubonsee Community College, offers expert guidance and strategic insight to support the institution's current administrative objectives. Leveraging extensive experience in higher education, the President Emeritus assists the leadership team in navigating complex academic and operational landscapes. This role involves providing historical context for current projects and fostering connections with community partners who support the college's mission. By sharing deep knowledge of the institution's development, John Swalec helps the current administration maintain alignment with the college's core goals. The President Emeritus acts as a mentor and advisor, ensuring that the values of the institution remain central to all new initiatives. Through this ongoing engagement, the President Emeritus strengthens the college's ability to serve the western suburbs of Chicago effectively. This leadership role ensures that the wisdom gained from past successes continues to inform future growth and innovation across all campuses.

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

    Who leads Waubonsee Community College?
    Waubonsee Community College is led by Brian Knetl (President), along with executives such as Mary Baccheschi (Executive Administrative Coordinator To the President and Clerk of the Board) and Ashley Hatcher (Club Founder and President).
    Who is part of Waubonsee Community College’s executive team?
    The executive team of Waubonsee Community College includes leaders such as Brian Knetl (President), Mary Baccheschi (Executive Administrative Coordinator To the President and Clerk of the Board), Ashley Hatcher (Club Founder and President) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Waubonsee Community College have?
    Waubonsee Community College has 7 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Waubonsee Community College’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Waubonsee Community College includes roles such as President, Executive Administrative Coordinator To the President and Clerk of the Board, Club Founder and President, Administrative Specialist Office of the President, Secretary & President, Office of.