President Hara Charlier to depart after 10 years of transformational leadership 

Central Lakes College announces that President Dr. Hara Charlier will conclude her tenure after 10 years of leadership to accept the presidency at Berkshire Community College in Massachusetts, an opportunity that allows her to be closer to family. 

Since joining CLC, Charlier helped reposition the college through two strategic plans centered on student success, equity, and community engagement. Under her leadership, the college redesigned the student experience to better serve underrepresented populations, strengthened its focus on upward social and economic mobility, and fostered a campus-wide “culture of caring.” 

Today, Central Lakes College is recognized for its strong enrollment, improving student success outcomes, and a nationally recognized employee culture. The college has been named a “Great College to Work For” six times, reflecting high levels of employee engagement, shared governance, and trust in leadership. 

Charlier also strengthened the college’s financial foundation and community presence. During her tenure, the college: 

• Launched more than 20 new academic programs aligned with workforce needs, including pathways in healthcare, manufacturing and skilled trades 

• Built extensive partnerships with business, industry, and community organizations 

• Expanded assets to support scholarships and programs through partnership with the CLC Foundation and by securing significant grant funding 

• Improved facilities to support student success, including the extensive renovation of the Brainerd campus and athletic complex and creating state-of-the art facilities for instruction in meat cutting and butchery and dental assisting/hygiene. 

These efforts resulted in increased scholarship support for students, expanded access to high-demand programs, and a stronger, more resilient institution. 

“Dr. Charlier’s kind, caring, and thoughtful nature brought tremendous and effective leadership to Central Lakes College through these challenging times,” said Scott Olson, Minnesota State Chancellor. “The tone she set was exemplified by the many times CLC has been recognized as a “Great Place to Work,” a designation that was the envy of all. Hara always kept students at the center of her thoughts and actions. Her style was not only a benefit to both CLC campuses and the communities of Brainerd and Staples; that same leadership shone brightly across the state as we addressed issues to help Minnesota prosper.” 

Throughout her presidency, Charlier has been a visible and active leader in the region, strengthening relationships with local, state, and federal partners and helping elevate the college as a key driver of workforce development and economic growth in Central Minnesota. 

“It has been an honor to be part of the Central Lakes College family and the communities we serve,” said Charlier. “I am grateful to my CLC colleagues who always go above and beyond, and I am incredibly proud of the work we have done together to transform students’ lives and strengthen our communities. This college will always have a special place in my heart.” 

Charlier’s final day at Central Lakes College will be June 30. A search is underway to identify an interim president, who will be appointed by the Minnesota State Board of Trustees in May. A national search will launch in the fall for the college’s next leader. 

Central Lakes College remains well-positioned for the future, with a strong foundation built on student success, community partnerships, and a commitment to opportunity for all.