About me
"Dr. Joanne Ivory is the Dean of Career and Technical Programs at William Rainey Harper College. She holds a Ph.D. in Organization Development and an MBA from Benedictine University. Joanne focuses on creating impactful credit and noncredit programs through strategic collaboration with faculty, administrators, and industry partners to support student success. A passionate Social Justice advocate, she engages with employee resource groups, colleagues, and students to foster empowerment and collective action for change. With expertise in curriculum and workforce development, international education, and change management, Joanne serves on various committees, boards, and workgroups. She has also presented at numerous conferences on local, state, national, and international stages. Through her leadership, Joanne ensures the effective use of resources to meet the evolving needs of professional and general communities, while championing innovation, diversity, and student opportunities in education and the workforce.
Dr. Yolonda Barnes has over 20 years of higher education experience, emphasizing servant leadership, collaboration, and a culture of care. As Dean of Business and Social Science at Harper College, she leads faculty, staff, and students while advancing strategic initiatives in program development, accreditation, and community partnerships. She also collaborates with secondary and university partners to expand dual credit and transfer opportunities.
Previously, Dr. Barnes served as Associate Dean at Elgin Community College, program chair and assistant professor at the College of Western Idaho, and adjunct instructor at Elgin Community College and Ferris State University.
She holds a Doctorate in Community College Leadership and a Master’s in Career and Technical Education from Ferris State University, a Bachelor’s in Religion from Central Michigan University, and an Associate in Paralegal from Oakland Community College. Originally from Southfield, Michigan, she is married to Kevin Barnes and has two adult children, Rebekah and Elizabeth."
