FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Phoenix, AZ, June 4, 2026 – Phoenix College (PC) announces the appointment of Dr. Heather Kruse as Interim President, effective June 1, 2026. Dr. Kruse brings more than 28 years of service to the Maricopa County Community College District (MCCCD), along with a proven record of student-centered leadership, institutional effectiveness, and a deep commitment to student success.
"I am honored to serve as Interim President of Phoenix College, where we have been changing lives and strengthening our community for more than a century," said Dr. Kruse. "What excites me most is not just our history, but the momentum we are building through student success, workforce partnerships, and a shared commitment to expanding opportunity. I look forward to working with our faculty, staff, students, and community partners to advance PC’s mission."
Dr. Kruse earned her doctorate and master's degrees in Educational Leadership from Northern Arizona University and her bachelor's degree from the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point.
Since 2018, she has served as Vice President of Student Affairs at Phoenix College, providing executive leadership for enrollment services, student development, retention and success initiatives, athletics, and Title IX compliance. In that role, she has helped lead key initiatives that have strengthened student success, enrollment, retention, and organizational effectiveness while fostering a culture of belonging and accountability across the institution. Her extensive leadership experience, deep understanding of Phoenix College, and trusted relationships across the college and community make her exceptionally well-positioned to lead the college during this important transition.
Dr. Steven R. Gonzales, Chancellor of the Maricopa County Community College District, expressed his confidence that Dr. Kruse's leadership will continue the positive momentum at Phoenix College.
Today, Phoenix College serves more than 17,000 students annually through transfer pathways, workforce training, and degree and certificate programs aligned with Arizona's workforce needs. In May 2026, the college awarded nearly 2,000 degrees and certificates to 766 graduates, helping students build skills, advance their careers, and strengthen the communities they serve.
About Phoenix College
Founded in 1920, Phoenix College is the flagship institution of the Maricopa County Community College District and one of the oldest community colleges in the nation. The college offers more than 200 degree and certificate programs and serves more than 17,000 students annually through university transfer pathways, workforce training, and select bachelor's degree programs aligned with Arizona's workforce needs. Learn more at phoenixcollege.edu.
Media Contact
Christy Flora
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phoenixcollege.edu