President & Cabinet

Alex Hernandez

Biography

Alejandro (“Alex”) Hernandez was born to a family of public educators in Stockton, CA. His parents journeyed from Mexico and the Philippines, and, at each step of the way, education brought opportunity-through skilled trades, nursing certificates, education credentials and degrees. These experiences shaped Alex’s belief that career-focused education can change lives and help communities thrive.

Hernandez comes to Champlain College from the University of Virginia, where he served as the Dean of the School of Continuing and Professional Studies (SCPS) and Vice Provost of Online Learning. At UVA, Hernandez championed access, affordability, and opportunity through its bachelor’s completion, professional certificate, and graduate programs. Alex helped SCPS enroll its largest undergraduate class in school history, launch its first master’s degree, and pursue a strategy that combined in-demand digital skills with the human skills needed for long-term career success. He also taught undergraduate courses in entrepreneurship (SCPS) and education innovation (School of Education and Human Development).

Before joining UVA, Hernandez worked for the Charter School Growth Fund, a national education foundation, where he built the nonprofit’s Innovative Schools practice, one of the largest efforts in the country focused on personalized learning and career readiness. Hernandez began his education career teaching high school mathematics in South Los Angeles. He later became an administrator for Portland Public Schools in Oregon and then an area superintendent for Aspire Public Schools in California. Prior to entering the field of education, he worked at Steamboat Ventures, Disney’s venture capital arm, and at J.P. Morgan. Hernandez has an MBA and MA in Education from Stanford University and a BA from Claremont McKenna College. He is a moderator for the Aspen Global Leadership Network and a Pahara Institute fellow.

Alex is married to Michelle Moore Hernandez and is the proud father of twin boys, Akari and Mekhi.

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Monique Taylor

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Danelle Berube

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Leandre Waldo

Biography

In her role as Chief Enrollment, Marketing and Partnerships Officer, Leandre leads the student journey from first inquiry through enrollment, providing executive oversight for the Admissions, Financial Aid, and Marketing teams.

Leandre previously served as Chief of Staff to the President at both Champlain College and St. Michael’s College, and in marketing and communications roles at Champlain College, University of Vermont Medical Center and Vermont Technical College. She holds an MBA from Brandeis University and a BA from Hamilton College.

Leandre has lived on both coasts and several states in between but is happy to call Burlington, VT her permanent home. Leandre spends as much time as possible outdoors. She lives with her partner and two college-aged children.

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Jennifer Nicholls

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Diana Matot

Biography

Diana Matot is a dedicated, long-time Champlain College employee with over 30 years of experience. She began her career with Champlain in the on-campus enrollment area and due to her love of systems moved to the Information Systems team where she is now the Vice President and CIO.

Having grown up in Vermont, Diana has always felt a strong connection to the local community and its values. After completing her education at Champlain, her career began in the insurance industry and after a few years her journey led her back to the College, where she found a dynamic environment that aligns with her commitment to excellence and innovation.

Outside of her professional pursuits, Diana enjoys exploring the natural beauty of Vermont in her Jeep Wrangler with her husband and spending time with family and friends camping, all with her camera in hand capturing the moments.

What are your hobbies?

Photography, Jeep Adventures and Camping.

Favorite local eateries and things to do in Vermont:

Loves being on the back roads of Vermont on any of the many jeep adventures with family and friends.

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April O’Dell

Biography

April O’Dell, CPA, is the Chief Financial and Business Officer at Champlain College, bringing over 12 years of experience in financial leadership within complex operational environments. With expertise spanning financial reporting, budgeting, internal control frameworks, and federal compliance, April has a proven ability to strengthen organizational productivity through transparent communication, collaboration, and holistic problem-solving.

During her time with Champlain, April has overseen initiatives such as an initial public rating with Standard & Poor’s and the issuance of bonds in public markets, reflecting her commitment to innovative financial stewardship. Additionally, her leadership has driven multiple system integrations to enhance efficiency and transparency across financial operations.

April began her career in public accounting at KPMG, LLP, advancing to Audit Manager, where she developed expertise in risk assessment, compliance, and client relationship management. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from the University of Vermont, graduating cum laude with recognition in accounting.

April is committed to fostering financial resilience in higher education and is known for her holistic thinking, collaborative leadership, and dedication to strengthening institutional outcomes.

Hobbies

Traveling, reading and watching my children play sports

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