2024-2025 Cohort

The mission of Leadership HCC Fellows Program at Howard Community College is to advance college visionaries to drive positive change within our institution and community through  a 12-month leadership development program. This program is designed to identify, develop, and prepare the next generation of leaders within the college through innovative curriculum and supportive networks. Leadership HCC will empower our fellows to excel and meaningfully invest in Howard Community College. In support of this mission, this leadership program will cultivate the community of HCC internally and will empower each fellow to build on their organizational perspective.

Meet Our Inaugural Cohort for Leadership HCC:

  • Brooke Abercrombie, Associate Director, Parent Scholars Program
  • Timothy Banks, Department Chair
  • Phillipe DeRosier, Manager of Fitness and Recreation
  • Yessica Flores, Howard P.R.I.D.E. Completion Specialist
  • Marilu Garcia-Yellin, Associate Director of Testing
  • Jennifer Garner, Professor and Co-Chair, English
  • Belinda Green, Environmental Health & Safety Associate
  • Bridget Holmes, Faculty
  • Molly Hong, Executive Assistant to the President
  • Marquita Johl, Basic Skills Academic Specialist & Faculty
  • Hal Kenny, Hospitality Program Coordinator/Instructor
  • Maureen Martin, Instructional Designer
  • Tero Moberg, Art Director
  • Bethany Pautrat, Asst. Director, Honors and Undergraduate Research
  • Michael Popp, Facilities Operations Manager
  • Faith Reed, Foundation Events Manager
  • Melissa Smith, Skills Trades Program Manager
  • Robinson Tlai, Computer Solutions Technician III
  • Ahnica Truong, Chair, Cyber Technology
  • Eric Wright, Grounds Supervisor



“Leadership is about guiding your team with unwavering focus toward a shared vision, inspiring
excellence even under pressure, and creating an environment where achievements are celebrated.
Meeting our goals is challenging, but with steadfast leadership and a unified vision, we make the
impossible possible.”
Dr. Daria Willis, PhD
President, Howard Community College

Overview

The Leadership HCC program is tailored to mid-career professionals poised to take on more significant leadership roles within the college. Drawing inspiration from the AASCU Emerging Leaders Program, this initiative emphasizes practical application, impactful training, and a supportive network. The curriculum includes hands-on training and real-world applications designed to prepare participants for the complexities of leadership in higher education. Over the year, participants will refine their collaborative skills, deepen their understanding of the college’s dynamics, and contribute to the advancement of HCC.

Eligibility

Admission to Leadership HCC is open to Managers, Coordinators, Chairs, Faculty, and Staff who demonstrate exceptional performance and potential for leadership.

Applicants must have completed at least one year of service at HCC. Preference will be given to individuals who have shown a strong commitment to leadership, active involvement in the HCC community, and a willingness to innovate and collaborate.

We seek to include diverse participants from various disciplines and departments.

Application Process

To apply for Leadership HCC, please submit the application form below after confirming with your supervisor that the session dates below will be acceptable for you to be out of your office space.

Application Form


Note: All applications must be submitted by Friday, October 4, 2024. It is your responsibility to follow up with your supervisor as necessary. The selection will be made from a diverse pool of candidates across campus, including classified staff, faculty, departmental deans, directors, and administrative staff.

Session Dates

January 14, 2025 in KHH 150: Introduction to Leadership and Self-Assessment

February 13, 2025 in Monteabaro: Effective Communication and Cultivating Partnerships

March 11, 2025 in SET 101/102: Decision-Making and Problem-Solving

April 10, 2025 in SET 101/102: Leading and Managing Teams

May 15, 2025 in CL 162 Dragon Commons: Understanding HCC’s Strategic Priorities and Governance

June 11, 2025 in KHH 150: Budgeting and Financial Management at HCC

July 10, 2025: Human Resources and Talent Management at HCC

August 14, 2025: Strategic Planning and Change Management at HCC

September 10, 2025: Capstone Project Planning

October 8, 2025: Implementation of Leadership Strategies

November 19, 2025: Reflection and Practical Application

December 10, 2025: Capstone Presentation and Graduation

Delivery Methods & Format

Selected participants will be exposed to a learning structure based on the foundational principles of instruction and administration. Participants will be required to review materials, the selected book, and case studies before each session and be ready to discuss how they apply to HCC. Sessions will feature presentations from expert guest speakers from within HCC and external partners who will address current issues and future trends. The program will be conducted in full-day sessions on scheduled dates. Each annual cohort will consist of 12-15 participants.