Waubonsee Community College Executive and Leadership Team

October, 2026

Leadership Overview

Waubonsee Community College has 6 executives leading key functions including academic strategy, institutional governance, board administration, and executive operations.

Committed to fostering student success and regional economic development, Waubonsee Community College provides accessible higher education through its diverse campus network across the western suburbs of Chicago.

Leadership Roles at Waubonsee Community College

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

    Christine Sobek, the President Emeritus at Waubonsee Community College, provides strategic counsel to the current leadership team regarding long-term institutional vision. Sobek maintains deep connections with regional stakeholders to support the mission of this two-year community college. By leveraging extensive experience in higher education, Sobek advises on policy development and community engagement initiatives across the Sugar Grove, Aurora, and Plano campuses. Christine Sobek ensures the continuity of academic excellence while mentoring emerging leaders within the organization. This role involves analyzing historical institutional data to inform future growth strategies and maintaining strong relationships with local industry partners. Through consistent advocacy for student-centered learning, Sobek strengthens the reputation of the college within the western suburbs of Chicago. The President Emeritus remains a vital resource for navigating complex educational landscapes and fostering an environment of innovation and inclusivity for all students.
    Christine Sobek

    Brian Knetl - President

    Brian Knetl, the President at Waubonsee Community College, directs all academic and operational functions across the four campus locations. Knetl architects the strategic vision for student success, ensuring alignment with the evolving needs of the western suburbs of Chicago. By overseeing faculty development and curriculum expansion, the President drives institutional growth and maintains high standards of educational quality. Brian Knetl collaborates with the Board of Trustees to implement policies that enhance accessibility and affordability for the diverse student population. This leadership role involves managing complex budgets and optimizing resource allocation to support campus infrastructure in Sugar Grove, Aurora, and Plano. Through active engagement with community leaders and industry partners, Knetl fosters partnerships that bridge the gap between classroom learning and workforce requirements. The President ensures the college remains a cornerstone of regional development while championing initiatives that promote equity and academic achievement for every student.

    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 flow of information between the executive office and the Board of Trustees. Baccheschi ensures the precise documentation of all board proceedings and maintains compliance with institutional governance standards. By coordinating high-level meetings and managing the President's schedule, the Executive Administrative Coordinator To the President and Clerk of the Board facilitates efficient decision-making processes. Mary Baccheschi oversees the preparation of official records and communications, ensuring transparency and accuracy in all administrative functions. This role requires meticulous attention to detail when handling sensitive institutional data and supporting the strategic objectives of the college. Through effective communication and organizational oversight, Baccheschi supports the seamless operation of the executive leadership team. The Clerk of the Board maintains the integrity of governance structures while providing essential support for the college's mission.

    Ronna Jones - Secretary & President, Office of

    Ronna Jones, the Secretary & President, Office of at Waubonsee Community College, executes critical administrative workflows that support the daily operations of the executive office. Jones manages internal communications and ensures that departmental activities align with the broader goals of the college. By streamlining office procedures and facilitating inter-departmental collaboration, the Secretary & President, Office of enhances the overall efficiency of the leadership team. Ronna Jones maintains essential records and provides logistical support for key institutional initiatives across the Sugar Grove, Aurora, and Plano campuses. This role involves managing inquiries from faculty, staff, and students, ensuring that the office remains responsive to the needs of the college community. Through diligent oversight of administrative tasks, Jones allows the executive team to focus on strategic planning and student success. The Secretary & President, Office of serves as a central point of contact for institutional operations, ensuring that all administrative functions support the mission of the college.

    Kevin Farmer - Administrative Specialist Office of the President

    Kevin Farmer, the Administrative Specialist Office of the President at Waubonsee Community College, supports the executive team by managing specialized projects and operational tasks. Farmer coordinates data collection and reporting efforts that inform the strategic direction of the college. By assisting with the preparation of presentations and executive reports, the Administrative Specialist Office of the President ensures that leadership has access to accurate information for decision-making. Kevin Farmer facilitates communication between the President's office and various campus departments, promoting a cohesive approach to institutional goals. This role involves managing office resources and optimizing workflows to improve productivity across the Sugar Grove, Aurora, and Plano locations. Through proactive problem-solving and administrative support, Farmer contributes to the smooth functioning of the executive office. The Administrative Specialist Office of the President plays a vital role in maintaining the operational standards necessary for the college to serve the western suburbs of Chicago effectively.

    John Swalec - President Emeritus

    John Swalec, the President Emeritus at Waubonsee Community College, provides historical context and strategic guidance to the current administration. Swalec supports the long-term mission of the college by offering insights into institutional development and community relations. By participating in key advisory capacities, the President Emeritus helps maintain the legacy of academic excellence established during previous tenures. John Swalec engages with the broader educational community to advocate for the value of two-year institutions in the western suburbs of Chicago. This role involves mentoring staff and supporting initiatives that align with the college's commitment to student success and regional growth. Through a deep understanding of the college's evolution, Swalec assists in navigating current challenges and identifying opportunities for future advancement. The President Emeritus remains a dedicated advocate for the institution, ensuring that the core values of the college continue to guide all strategic efforts and community partnerships.

    Explore Leadership Teams in Colleges & Universities

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

    Who leads Waubonsee Community College?
    Waubonsee Community College is led by Christine Sobek (President Emeritus), along with executives such as Brian Knetl (President) and Mary Baccheschi (Executive Administrative Coordinator To the President and Clerk of the Board).
    Who is part of Waubonsee Community College’s executive team?
    The executive team of Waubonsee Community College includes leaders such as Christine Sobek (President Emeritus), Brian Knetl (President), Mary Baccheschi (Executive Administrative Coordinator To the President and Clerk of the Board) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Waubonsee Community College have?
    Waubonsee Community College has 6 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 Emeritus, President, Executive Administrative Coordinator To the President and Clerk of the Board, Secretary & President, Office of, Administrative Specialist Office of the President.