Office of the President

Discover the Office of the President at Highland Community College, featuring leadership updates, campus governance information, strategic initiatives, and key institutional awards. Learn how HCC’s executive team supports students, faculty, and the community through transparent leadership and a commitment to excellence.

Welcome From The President

Dear Scotties,

Welcome to Highland Community College! I am honored to serve as the 45th President. And I am delighted to welcome you to the first college in the state of Kansas. Whether you are a prospective student exploring our outstanding offerings, a current member of our campus community, an alum, or a member of Scottie Nation, I thank you for your interest in Highland!

Highland Community College boasts three distinctive strengths: we are the destination of choice for a quality education, we have many programs of distinction, and our powerful sense of community.

As the first college in Kansas, we take immense pride in our rich heritage of educating generations of Kansans. We are the destination of choice for a quality education in Northeast Kansas and beyond. Indeed, we have many nationally recognized programs that range from nursing to welding to fine arts.

Moreover, Highland Community College is synonymous with excellence through our programs of distinction. From our nationally ranked athletic teams to our engaged student organizations, our students receive a well-rounded and challenging education that helps them achieve greatness academically and grow socially.

At the heart of Scottie Nation lies a powerful sense of community. Whether on our Highland campus, at our regional centers in Atchison, Baileyville, or throughout Northeast Kansas and beyond, we embrace our alumni, friends, and supporters. No matter where you are, you will always be welcomed into the Scottie family, where every member is valued.

As a Scottie, you are more than just a student to our dedicated faculty and staff, you are an integral part of the Scottie family. I warmly invite you to discover all that Highland has to offer by touring our beautiful campus and applying for admission today. We eagerly anticipate welcoming you to Highland Community College soon!

Warm regards,

Dr. Vincent Bowhay | 45th President, Highland Community College (Kansas)

Dr. Vincent Bowhay’s association with Highland Community College first began as a student taking college courses while still in high school at Royal Valley in Hoyt, Kansas. He holds a bachelor’s degree from Washburn University, a master of arts from Ball State University, and a doctor of education from Baker University. He completed Stanford University’s executive leadership program in 2022. Prior to accepting Presidency at HCC, Bowhay held administrative positions at Independence Community College, Missouri Western State University, Fort Hays State University, and Campus Labs. His most recent book, “The Proper Role of Higher Education in a Democratic Society,” re-examines the role higher education plays in preparing students for a life of civic engagement and community leadership. Bowhay was one of 25 leaders nationwide selected for the 2021-2022 class of the Aspen New Presidents Fellowship.