Lakes Region Community College is proud to announce the appointment of Dr. Lynda Sinkiewich as its new Vice President of Academic and Student Affairs. A seasoned academic leader with more than 20 years of experience in higher education, Dr. Sinkiewich brings a deep commitment to student success, faculty engagement, and innovative program development.
Dr. Sinkiewich joins LRCC from Heartland Community College in Illinois, where she served as Dean of Liberal Arts & Social Sciences. In this role, she led the college’s largest academic division, overseeing more than 110 faculty and staff and contributed greatly to the institution’s core curriculum. Her tenure was marked by the launch of career-aligned liberal arts pathways, the integration of strategic enrollment planning, and the expansion of partnerships that bridge education with workforce opportunity.
A passionate advocate for adult learners, Dr. Sinkiewich played a pivotal role in expanding Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) opportunities at Heartland, following CAEL (Council for Adult and Experiential Learning) standards. Her work opened doors for more working adults to translate their real-world experience into academic credit, accelerating their path to degree completion.
Dr. Sinkiewich is known for her collaborative leadership style, grounded in transparency and mission-driven innovation. Under her leadership, faculty satisfaction and student outcomes both saw measurable improvements—testaments to her belief in student-centered education.
When asked why she chose to join LRCC, Dr. Sinkiewich pointed to the college’s commitment to educating the whole student—and its forward-thinking approach to learning that prepares students for both personal and professional success.
President Patrick Cate shared, “Dr. Sinkiewich’s experience, values, and student-first leadership style make her an outstanding addition to our college community. We’re thrilled to welcome her to LRCC.”
Dr. Sinkiewich officially steps into her new role this summer.
