The Madison College Board of Trustees has announced that Dr. Jennifer Berne will be the next president of Madison College, effective July 1.
Berne brings over 30 years of experience in higher education, spanning roles as a faculty member, researcher, academic leader, and community college provost. She will officially begin her role as president on July 1.
In an email to employees and students, Donald D. Danzler Jr., District Board of Trustees Chair, shared this news and said, “From the beginning, we believed the opportunity to lead this remarkable institution would attract the right candidate at the right time. We are confident Dr. Berne embodies the character.”
Danzler Jr. went on to say that this announcement marks a significant milestone in a process that has unfolded over several months. “From the announcement of Dr. Daniels’ retirement to the decision to restart our national search, to welcoming the four finalists to the campuses, the board remained committed to finding an exceptional leader to guide Madison College into its next chapter,” Danzler Jr. said.
Berne currently serves as provost of Oakland Community College in Michigan, a large, five-campus institution serving more than 23,000 students annually. As the college’s chief academic officer, she has driven new program development, expanded dual credit and workforce partnerships, led faculty-focused teaching and learning initiatives and supported strategic enrollment efforts. Berne is an innovative community leader, collaborating with K-12 partners, workforce boards, elected officials and industry leaders to strengthen access, expand educational opportunities and develop a talent pipeline across the college’s region.
As part of the public announcement, Danzler Jr. shared some of Berne’s own reflections:
“Madison College is poised for transformative success, and I am honored to be part of it. I was immediately impressed by the dedicated faculty and staff I’ve met, the engaged partners throughout the community, beautiful spaces and facilities, and the incredible backdrop of the district Madison College serves. What stood out to me was the deep pride people feel for this college and the meaningful purpose behind everything happening here,” Dr. Berne said.