Sharale W. Mathis
Connecticut State Community College recently announced the appointment of Dr. Sharale W. Mathis as president, effective in August. With over 20 years of experience in higher education, Mathis brings a strong repertoire of successful retention programs and leadership to the college.
Mathis most recently served as vice president of Academic and Student Affairs at Holyoke Community College. During her four years in that position she played a crucial role in implementing policies aimed at increasing student and employee retention rates.
One of her most impactful contributions to Holyoke initiated a collaborative framework to help promote student access and equity across campus. Referred to as the “One Team” framework, Mathis improved enrollment, student resources and outreach across the board. While it remains the unofficial name, “One Team” is still implemented as part of a three-year plan set to run into 2026.
Mathis was also recently elected chair of the Massachusetts Community College Chief Academic Officers Council. She also serves on a number of prominent boards, including the Commission on Institutional Infrastructure and Transformation for the American Association of Community Colleges, Community College Research Advisory Council of the EAB education consulting firm and the Nation al Council on Black American Affairs Northeast Region.
As a proud Hartford native, Mathis earned all three of her degrees from Connecticut-based institutions: a bachelor of science in biology from Eastern Connecticut State University, a master of science in biomedical sciences from Quinnipiac University and a doctorate of education from the University of Hartford.
In an Aug. 14 LinkedIn post, Mathis expressed her excitement about returning to Connecticut. “Thank you Interim Chancellor O. John Maduko, M.D. for welcoming me to CT State. Most importantly thank you for the words of wisdom and encouragement. Feels good to be back home!”
As part of the Executive Orientation Program cohort by Leadership Greater Hartford, Mathis is preparing for her new role along with other leaders from across the region. Her appointment heralds the start of an exciting new chapter for the college as she brings her expertise as well as a commitment to shaping the institution’s future.
