Waubonsee Community College Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

Waubonsee Community College has 7 executives leading key functions including administration, strategy, and board relations.

Dedicated to accessible higher education, Waubonsee Community College fosters student success through comprehensive academic programs and community engagement across its Illinois campuses, driving regional development.

Leadership Roles at Waubonsee Community College

  • Executive Administrative Coordinator To the President and Clerk of the Board - Mary Baccheschi
  • Secretary & President, Office of - Ronna Jones
  • President Emeritus - John Swalec
  • President - Brian Knetl
  • Club Founder and President - Ashley Hatcher
  • Administrative Specialist Office of the President - Kevin Farmer
  • President Emeritus - Christine Sobek
  • 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 critical administrative functions supporting the college's highest leadership. This role involves coordinating executive schedules, preparing essential documentation for board meetings, and ensuring seamless communication between the President's office and the Board of Trustees. Baccheschi facilitates the operational flow of executive decision-making, directly impacting the efficiency of strategic planning and governance. The coordination of board communications and administrative support ensures that the President's office operates with maximum effectiveness, aligning with Waubonsee Community College's mission to provide accessible education. This position requires meticulous attention to detail and a deep understanding of institutional protocols, contributing to the stable governance of the college's operations across its Sugar Grove, Aurora, and Plano locations.

    Ronna Jones - Secretary & President, Office of

    Ronna Jones, the Secretary & President, Office of at Waubonsee Community College, directs key administrative operations and governance support. This dual role encompasses secretarial duties for institutional leadership while also driving strategic initiatives within the President's office. Jones ensures the efficient functioning of administrative processes, facilitating communication and operational alignment across various college departments. The responsibilities include managing critical records, coordinating executive correspondence, and supporting the implementation of institutional policies. This leadership position is vital for maintaining the integrity of executive communications and operational continuity. Ronna Jones's oversight contributes directly to the effective management of the college's administrative framework, supporting Waubonsee Community College's educational mission throughout the western suburbs of Chicago.

    John Swalec - President Emeritus

    John Swalec, the President Emeritus at Waubonsee Community College, provides ongoing advisory capacity and represents the institution's legacy. This distinguished role involves offering strategic counsel based on extensive experience, contributing to the long-term vision of the college. Swalec's continued association supports institutional memory and guides future development through mentorship and advocacy. The emeritus status signifies a lasting commitment to Waubonsee Community College's mission of accessible education and community impact. This position leverages past leadership insights to inform current strategic discussions, ensuring continuity and reinforcing the college's foundational principles. John Swalec's contributions remain valuable in shaping the college's enduring influence within the Illinois educational landscape.

    Brian Knetl - President

    Brian Knetl, the President at Waubonsee Community College, architects the institution's strategic direction and overall operational framework. This leadership position involves guiding academic innovation, fostering community partnerships, and ensuring financial sustainability across the college's multiple campuses in Sugar Grove, Aurora, and Plano. Knetl drives initiatives that enhance student success, expand access to higher education, and align educational offerings with workforce demands in the western suburbs of Chicago. The President oversees all major college functions, including academic affairs, student services, and administrative operations, ensuring cohesive execution of the institutional mission. Brian Knetl's leadership is central to Waubonsee Community College's commitment to providing quality education and fostering regional economic development through skilled graduates.

    Ashley Hatcher - Club Founder and President

    Ashley Hatcher, the Club Founder and President at Waubonsee Community College, spearheads student engagement and organizational development within extracurricular activities. This role involves establishing club objectives, mobilizing student participation, and fostering a vibrant campus community. Hatcher directs the planning and execution of club events, initiatives, and outreach programs designed to enrich the student experience. The leadership focus is on empowering student voices and facilitating collaborative projects that align with the college's broader educational and social mission. Ashley Hatcher's efforts contribute to a dynamic campus environment, enhancing student life and providing valuable leadership opportunities outside of formal academic coursework at Waubonsee Community College.

    Kevin Farmer - Administrative Specialist Office of the President

    Kevin Farmer, the Administrative Specialist Office of the President at Waubonsee Community College, provides essential support to the President's executive functions. This role involves managing daily administrative tasks, coordinating schedules, and facilitating communication within the President's office and with external stakeholders. Farmer ensures the smooth operation of administrative processes, contributing to the efficiency of strategic planning and institutional management. The position requires a high degree of organization and proactive problem-solving to support the President's diverse responsibilities. Kevin Farmer's dedicated support is crucial for maintaining the operational effectiveness of Waubonsee Community College's leadership, reinforcing the college's commitment to accessible education and community service across its Illinois locations.

    Christine Sobek - President Emeritus

    Christine Sobek, the President Emeritus at Waubonsee Community College, contributes valuable institutional knowledge and strategic perspective. This emeritus role allows for continued engagement through advisory capacities, supporting the college's long-term strategic objectives and legacy. Sobek's extensive experience informs discussions on institutional growth and educational innovation, reinforcing Waubonsee Community College's commitment to serving the western suburbs of Chicago. The position leverages past leadership insights to guide current initiatives and ensure the enduring strength of the college's mission. Christine Sobek's ongoing connection provides a vital link to the institution's history and future aspirations, underscoring a sustained dedication to accessible higher education.
    Christine Sobek

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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 Mary Baccheschi (Executive Administrative Coordinator To the President and Clerk of the Board), along with executives such as Ronna Jones (Secretary & President, Office of) and John Swalec (President Emeritus).
    Who is part of Waubonsee Community College’s executive team?
    The executive team of Waubonsee Community College includes leaders such as Mary Baccheschi (Executive Administrative Coordinator To the President and Clerk of the Board), Ronna Jones (Secretary & President, Office of), John Swalec (President Emeritus) 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 Executive Administrative Coordinator To the President and Clerk of the Board, Secretary & President, Office of, President Emeritus, President, Club Founder and President.