Dr. Annette Parker’s career began at General Motors before transitioning into education at Lansing Community College (LCC), where she discovered her passion for teaching. Over 17 years, she contributed to LCC’s growth, leading a $48 million campus expansion and securing over $50 million in donations. She later joined the Kentucky Community and Technical College System (KCTCS), earning her doctoral degree and directing the Automotive Manufacturing Technical Education Collaborative (AMTEC), recognized nationally by the National Governors Association.
In 2013, Dr. Parker became the first woman and person of color to serve as president of South Central College (SCC). Her leadership helped SCC achieve recognition as an Achieving the Dream Leader College in 2022, advancing equity through course redesign and student services. She actively participates in civic and economic development, serving on boards such as NIST-MEP, The Coalition of Career Development, and the Center for Occupational Research and Development. Named Greater Mankato’s Woman of Distinction in 2019, her past leadership includes roles on President Obama’s Advanced Manufacturing Partnership Steering Committee, the National Academy of Sciences STEM Advisory Board, and the MIT Work of the Future Advisory Board.
Education:
Ed.D. (Education Leadership) | Western Kentucky University
M.S. (Education Administration) | Ferris State University
B.S. (Secondary Education) | Ferris State University
A.A.S. (Industrial Drafting) | Lansing Community College
Past Experience:
President | South Central College
System Executive Director | Kentucky Community and Technical College System
Administrative Department Chair | Lansing Community College
Faculty | Lansing Community College
How has education changed your life/your family?
Education has been a profound source of inspiration throughout Dr. Parker’s career. Guided by exceptional mentors who shaped her path, she remains deeply grateful for their influence and is committed to paying it forward. As a dedicated leader, she strives to support and uplift the next generation, particularly minority and non-traditional students, fostering resilience and ambition. Through her words and actions, she demonstrates that education — paired with perseverance — can transform lives, opening doors to opportunities that empower students to succeed and lead with confidence.