Executive Vice President

Dr. Yolanda Farmer serves as the Executive Vice President at Joliet Junior College, where she brings more than 28 years of experience in higher education and over a decade in senior leadership to her work every day. Dr. Farmer is known for her collaborative spirit and her ability to inspire teams toward meaningful, student-centered change.

Her passion for student success has shaped major initiatives across the college, including enrollment management, mental health services, diversity efforts, and workforce development. She played a key role in launching JJC’s first University Center, establishing a dedicated mental health department, and redesigning academic advising- an effort that strengthened student engagement while also saving the college $50,000.

In her role as Executive Vice President, Dr. Farmer has guided several high-impact projects, from campus expansion and strategic planning to the effective use of federal relief funding. She is also a strong champion of partnerships, working closely with nine university partners and the College–Community Partnership Committee to build connections that benefit both students and local industries. Her leadership in securing major funding sources, including a $2.1 million Title III grant, reflects her dedication to building long-term opportunities for student success.

A graduate of the League for Innovation’s Executive Leadership Institute, Dr. Farmer brings a wealth of experience from both commuter and residential urban institutions and remains actively involved in state and local boards. Her inclusive leadership style, strategic mindset, and deep commitment to JJC’s mission make her a trusted and influential voice in higher education.

In 2024, Dr. Farmer was selected for the Aspen Rising Star Presidents Fellowship, a program that prepares emerging community college presidents to lead their institutions to even higher levels of student achievement and equity.