Leadership Guided by Purpose, People, and Community

The President’s Office at Glen Oaks Community College provides strategic leadership that keeps students, employees, and community partners at the center of every decision. The president works closely with the Board of Trustees, executive leadership, faculty, and staff to advance the college’s mission and ensure Glen Oaks remains responsive to the evolving needs of southern Michigan and northern Indiana.

This office exists to lead with integrity, align daily work with long-term goals, and create the conditions where students and employees can succeed.


A Student-Centered Leadership Philosophy

Leadership at Glen Oaks is grounded in the belief that access, opportunity, and support change lives. The president’s philosophy reflects a commitment to:

  • Putting student success at the forefront of institutional decision-making
  • Ensuring academic quality, affordability, and access for learners at every stage
  • Supporting faculty and staff as essential partners in student outcomes
  • Making decisions guided by data, transparency, and shared governance
  • Strengthening the college’s role as a regional workforce and community partner

This approach recognizes that meaningful education is built through collaboration, innovation, and trust.


Aligning Leadership with the Strategic Plan

The President’s Office is responsible for advancing Glen Oaks’ Strategic Plan and ensuring progress across its six institutional priorities. These priorities guide resource allocation, program development, and long-term planning across the college.

Leadership efforts focus on:

  • Expanding access and enrollment for diverse student populations
  • Improving student success, completion, and transfer outcomes
  • Strengthening workforce development and employer partnerships
  • Ensuring responsible stewardship of financial and physical resources
  • Increasing community awareness and engagement
  • Fostering a vibrant, inclusive workplace culture

Every initiative led or supported by the President’s Office is evaluated through the lens of these goals to ensure alignment with Glen Oaks’ mission and vision.


Commitment to Transparency and Shared Governance

Open communication and shared leadership are core to how Glen Oaks operates. The President’s Office works in partnership with faculty, staff, students, and the Board of Trustees to ensure voices are heard and decisions are made with clarity and accountability.

This commitment supports a culture where ideas are encouraged, challenges are addressed collaboratively, and progress is measured openly.


Executive Leadership and Institutional Leadership

The president leads a team of dedicated administrators who oversee academic affairs, student services, finance, operations, workforce development, and community engagement.

From this page, visitors can learn more about:

  • The Executive Leadership Team
  • The Expanded Executive Leadership Team

These leaders work together to translate strategy into action and ensure Glen Oaks continues to serve students and the region effectively.

Primary CTA: View the Executive Leadership Team
Secondary CTA: Explore the Expanded Executive Leadership Team


Contact the President’s Office

Community members, partners, and employees are encouraged to engage with the President’s Office to share ideas, ask questions, or explore opportunities for collaboration.

Headshot of Dr. Brian Newton in a blue suit and white shirt and blue tie.
Dr. Bryan Newton President
Headshot of Diane Zinsmaster
Diane Zinsmaster Executive Associate to the President