PITTSFIELD, Mass — Berkshire Community College (BCC) announced the arrival of Dr. Hara D. Charlier as president of BCC on July 1, 2026.

 

Charlier, who served as president of Central Lakes College in Brainerd, Minnesota since 2016, brings deep leadership experience rooted in expanding higher education access and opportunity in rural communities.

 

"As I make the transition from rural Minnesota to Berkshire Community College and the amazing Berkshires community, I could not be more excited to begin this next chapter," Charlier said. "As soon as I learned about the mission of BCC, which focuses on access for all, I knew this was the place for me. I look forward to getting to know the faculty, the staff, and most importantly, the students who make BCC the special place it is."

 

Under her leadership, Central Lakes College transformed the student experience to advance equitable success, growing enrollment, modernizing facilities and the launch of more than 20 new academic programs. Her philosophy centers on voice, relationships, belonging, and student success. She holds a BS in Animal Science from Cornell University, an MS in Microbiology from Miami University, and a PhD in Community College Leadership from Old Dominion University.

 

Current President Ellen Kennedy is assuming a one-year position of interim president of Cape Cod Community College on July 1, delaying her plan to retire.

 

In honor of President Kennedy's 14 years of extraordinary leadership, the College held a community-wide celebration in early June. The celebration welcomed students, alumni, employees, retirees, partners, donors and community members, who came together to celebrate BCC, reflect on shared memories and recognize President Kennedy's leadership and lasting impact.