Schriever, LA - Fletcher Technical Community College is recognizing a major leadership milestone as Chancellor Dr. Kristine Strickland celebrates 10 years of service leading the institution. The milestone comes as Fletcher celebrates its 75th anniversary, marking decades of workforce education and community impact across the Bayou Region.
Since assuming the role of chancellor in 2016, Dr. Strickland has guided Fletcher through a decade of growth, transformation, and resilience, strengthening the college’s role as a workforce and community anchor for South Louisiana.
Under her leadership, Fletcher has expanded academic and workforce training programs aligned with regional industry needs, strengthened partnerships with business and community organizations, and invested in facilities and infrastructure that support both student success and community resilience. Her tenure has also included navigating unprecedented challenges, including hurricanes, the COVID-19 pandemic, and shifting workforce demands, while keeping student access and opportunity at the center of the college’s mission.
“Dr. Strickland has profoundly changed this community through the work she has accomplished at Fletcher. Through innovation, collaboration, and strong leadership, she has expanded opportunities for students and strengthened the institution’s mission,” said Dr. Ana Nanney, Vice Chancellor for Enrollment and Student Development.
Dr. Strickland’s leadership has emphasized student-centered decision making, workforce alignment, and long term strategic planning. During her tenure, Fletcher has increased visibility across the region, strengthened its brand, and reinforced its role as a trusted resource during times of crisis, including serving as a resiliency hub for the community.
“The Chancellor’s lasting impact on Fletcher as an institution and on the Bayou Region it serves is only beginning to be fully realized. It is a true privilege and honor to serve under her leadership as part of such an exceptional Fletcher team,” said Dr. Mark McLean, Vice Chancellor for Finance, Administration, and Strategic Initiatives.
During this period of growth, Fletcher has continued expanding its training capacity and strengthening partnerships with employers across the region, ensuring that programs remain aligned with the evolving needs of industry.
“Dr. Strickland’s decade of service and stewardship is reflected in a growing campus footprint and expanded training facilities. Her proactive approach to anticipating workforce needs through strong partnerships with business and industry has helped ensure that the programs we offer lead students to careers and wages that change lives,” said Dr. Carrie Cortez, Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs and Workforce Initiatives.
Dr. Strickland’s leadership has also strengthened Fletcher’s connection to the broader community, including the work of the Fletcher Technical Community College Foundation in supporting students and advancing the college’s mission.
“Dr. Strickland’s leadership has strengthened not only Fletcher as an institution, but the entire Bayou Region workforce,” said Ben Malbrough, Chair of the Fletcher Foundation Board. “Through her vision and dedication, the college has expanded opportunities for students while deepening partnerships with industry and the community. The Foundation is proud to support a mission that is changing lives and preparing the next generation of skilled professionals for our region.”
As Fletcher celebrates 75 years of service to South Louisiana, the college continues to build on the foundation laid during Dr. Strickland’s decade of leadership, focusing on innovation, workforce development, and expanding access to education and training that changes lives.
About Fletcher Technical Community College
Fletcher Technical Community College, a member of the Louisiana Community and Technical College System, is a vital educational resource serving the Bayou Region. The college offers associate degrees, technical diplomas, short term workforce training, and free adult education programs such as high school equivalency preparation, digital literacy courses, and English language instruction.
Fletcher is committed to providing accessible, high quality education that strengthens Louisiana’s workforce and supports the economic growth of South Louisiana. Visit www.fletcher.edu for more information.