Community College Baccalaureate Association Names Dr. Cheryl Calhoun CEO

ORLANDO, Fla. (May 8, 2026) – Following a national search, the Community College Baccalaureate Association (CCBA) Board of Directors has named Cheryl Calhoun, PhD Chief Executive Officer. She will assume the role on July 1 following the retirement of President Dr. Angela Kersenbrock.

“We are incredibly excited about Cheryl’s leadership and what she will bring to CCBA,” says Dr. Joyce Hammer, CCBA Board Chair. “The national search process was thoughtful, thorough, and far-reaching, and it ultimately led us to an exceptional group of finalists and an outstanding choice for our next CEO. Cheryl’s enthusiasm for the role was evident from the beginning, and we are thrilled that she is fully committed to leading CCBA into its next chapter!”

Dr. Calhoun brings more than 30 years of community college and nonprofit leadership to CCBA. Currently serving as provost and vice president of instruction at Arapahoe Community College (CO), she leads academic and workforce strategy, instructional innovation, and institutional transformation efforts that align education with regional labor-market demand and expand economic mobility for adult and working learners.

Throughout her career at Santa Fe College (FL), Dr. Calhoun championed workforce-driven bachelor’s degrees that provide students accessible, high-impact career pathways. Her leadership contributed to significant growth in student outcomes, expanded high-demand credential programs, and strengthened organizational sustainability.

A former faculty member, dean, entrepreneur, and nonprofit leader, Dr. Calhoun brings extensive expertise in governance, innovation, workforce education, and community engagement. She also serves as a leadership coach for Achieving the Dream, advising colleges nationwide on guided pathways, equity, and institutional transformation. She holds a PhD in Curriculum & Instruction/Educational Technology from the University of Florida, along with an MBA Decision & Information Science.

“I am excited to join CCBA because community college baccalaureate degrees represent one of the most powerful ways we can expand opportunity for students while responding directly to workforce and community needs,” Dr. Calhoun says. “Throughout my career, I have seen how career-connected bachelor’s pathways can change the trajectory for working adults, place-bound students, and families. I look forward to working with CCBA’s members and partners to strengthen, elevate, and expand these programs nationally.”