HCC Leadership

President

Dr. Vincent Bowhay’s association with Highland Community College first began as a student taking college courses while still in high school at Royal Valley in Hoyt, Kansas. He holds a bachelor’s degree from Washburn University, a master of arts from Ball State University and a doctor of education from Baker University. He completed Stanford University’s executive leadership program in 2022. Prior to accepting the Presidency at HCC, Bowhay held administrative positions at Independence Community College, Missouri Western State University, Fort Hays State University and Campus Labs.

His most recent book, “The Proper Role of Higher Education in a Democratic Society,” re-examines the role higher education plays in preparing students for a life of civic engagement and community leadership. Bowhay was one of 25 leaders nationwide selected for the 2021-22 class of the Aspen New Presidents Fellowship.

Vice President for Student Services

Dr. Eric Ingmire, Vice President for Student Services, came to the College from the Fremont Campus of Pueblo Community College where he was the Director of Student Services.  A native Kansan, Ingmire graduated from Berean Academy in Elbing, Manhattan Christian College with a bachelor’s degree, Kansas State University with a master’s degree in Counseling and Student Development, and completed a doctorate from Grand Canyon University in Organizational Leadership. more...

Vice President for Academic Affairs

Dr. Carlos Carillo is originally from Tucson, Arizona. His lifelong career has been dedicated to higher education. Before joining Highland Community College, he served in various leadership roles and earned his Doctor of Education with Distinction from Northern Arizona University. Notably, he was the first executive in the country to integrate AI for learning in a learning management system called D2L Brightspace.

His work has focused on inclusion, equity and accessibility for all students, ensuring curriculum design, regardless of modality, addresses biases and removes barriers. He enjoys teaching narrative theory to foster critical thinking and recognize implicit biases. He is forward-thinking and innovative, and always looking for new ways to enhance the educational experience.

Vice President for Technical Education

Lucas Hunziger, Vice President for Technical Education, came to Highland Community College from USD #449 where he was an Industrial Technology Instructor for 12 years. He previously served as Director of the HCC Technical Center in Atchison for seven years. Lucas is a native Kansan graduating from Atchison High School before earning his bachelor’s in Technology Education from Pittsburg State University.

He also holds a Master Degree in Education from Baker University and a Master Degree in School Leadership from Benedictine College.

Vice President for Finance & Operations

Andrew Gutschenritter comes from Neodesha, Kansas where he was born and raised. He obtained his Bachelor of Arts in Biology from Ottawa University and his Master of Business Administration with an emphasis in Accounting from Pittsburg State University. 

Before his time with Highland Community College, he worked for Independence Community College as the Controller.

Board of Trustees

Vernie Coy (Wathena)

Bill Noll (Highland)

Mark Rounds (Highland)

Tom Smith, Chairperson (Highland)

Jason Taylor, Vice-Chairperson (Highland)

Carl Tharman, Secretary/Treasurer (Troy)