Nov 10, 2026 —
What:
The State Center Community College District Board of Trustees will hold a press conference to formally introduce Chancellor-Designate Dr. Christine Holt-McDonald, who was appointed by the Board of Trustees and will officially assume the role of Chancellor on January 1, 2027.
Who:
Rob Fuentes, President, SCCCD Board of Trustees
SCCCD Board of Trustees
Dr. Christine Holt-McDonald, Deputy Chancellor and Chancellor-Designate
Additional district representatives, as appropriate
When:
Thursday, Nov. 12, 2026
9:00 a.m.
Where:
State Center Community College District Board Room
1171 Fulton Street
Fresno, CA 93721
Biography
Dr. Christine Holt-McDonald brings more than 30 years of leadership experience in higher education, public service, and the legal profession. Since joining the District as Deputy Chancellor in 2025, she has led major district functions including Educational Services and Institutional Effectiveness, Finance and Administration, Human Resources, Operations, and Information Systems. Working closely with college and district leaders, she has helped advance strategic priorities focused on student success, institutional effectiveness, workforce development, fiscal stewardship, and organizational excellence.
Prior to joining SCCCD, Dr. Holt-McDonald served as Chancellor of the University of Arkansas Hope-Texarkana, where she led two campuses and the nationally recognized James Black School of Bladesmithing. During her tenure, the institution launched the Hempstead Guarantee, expanding college access for local students, implemented more equitable employee compensation practices, and secured the largest endowed gift in the college’s history.
Throughout her distinguished career, Dr. Holt-McDonald has held executive leadership positions at both two-year and four-year institutions, including service with the University of Missouri System and Northern Virginia Community College. Her expertise spans strategic planning, academic affairs, accreditation, enrollment management, institutional effectiveness, Title IX compliance, campus safety, workforce development, and organizational leadership.
In addition to her higher education experience, Dr. Holt-McDonald brings a unique legal perspective to educational leadership. She earned her Juris Doctor and practiced family and juvenile law, advocating on behalf of children and older adults and reinforcing a lifelong commitment to service.
Known for her collaborative leadership style, operational expertise, and student-centered approach, Dr. Holt-McDonald has dedicated her career to expanding access, advancing equity, and creating pathways for student achievement.
Dr. Holt-McDonald holds a Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration from Capital University, a Master’s Degree in Adult Education from East Carolina University, a Juris Doctor from Cleveland-Marshall College of Law, and a Doctorate in Business Administration with an emphasis in Leadership and Management from the University of Missouri-St. Louis.