Herkimer County Community College Promotes William McDonald

William McDonald, of Remsen, NY, has been promoted to chief of staff and director of operations at Herkimer County Community College (HCCC).

McDonald brings nearly two decades of higher education experience to the role. He served as HCCC’s dean of academic affairs for the past six years. His responsibilities included supervision of more than 50 full and part-time faculty, as well as curriculum development and review, management of departmental budgets, and scheduling courses for more than 40 degree and certificate programs.

McDonald also has held positions as associate dean, assistant to the president, director of continuing education, and interim human resources specialist at HCCC. Throughout his tenure, he has played a key role in strengthening workforce development initiatives, enhancing cross-campus collaboration, and improving operational effectiveness.

In his new role, McDonald will support the College president with day-to-day coordination of her direct report departments. He will also help strengthen communication across divisions, support operational alignment, and assist in moving key institutional priorities forward.

“Bill brings a strong sense of purpose, a genuine desire to serve, and a deep respect for people and process. He leads with kindness, remains steady under pressure, and approaches challenges with both thoughtfulness and integrity. Those qualities matter to me, especially in moments that require calm leadership and collaboration,” said President Terri Grates Day. “Bill believes deeply in this institution and is committed to ensuring that our best days are ahead.”

McDonald holds a Master of Science in Education in leadership and instruction for inclusive classrooms and a Bachelor of Science in management with a concentration in human resources management from Utica College.