News

Theresa Rowland’s return to Montcalm County marks a meaningful homecoming, bringing her back to the community where her passion for higher education first took root. 

Rowland and her family moved from Owosso to Stanton when she was a child. It was during those early years that her interest in higher education first began to take shape. Now, after a distinguished career spent building her expertise, she has come back to contribute to the community and college that helped shape her. 

Rowland recently joined Montcalm Community College as its Vice President of Finance & Administration. Since stepping into the role in mid-October, she has been working closely with Senior Vice President & Chief Operating Officer Connie Stewart – whose nearly 15 years of service at MCC set a remarkable standard – as she prepares to carry forward the College’s commitment to excellence upon Stewart’s retirement. 

“Connie has taught me about the connections I need to make within the community to ensure I’m set up for as much success in this role as possible,” Rowland said of Stewart’s mentorship. “I cannot be more appreciative of her; I know she’s leaving big shoes to fill. Having her as that mentor has really made it so much easier to transition into this role.” 

Rowland graduated from Central Montcalm High School, and her first college classes were at MCC. She eventually transferred to Davenport College to finish her associate degree. She then moved to Nashville, Tenn., where she completed her bachelor’s degree in management and human relations with a minor in accounting from Trevecca Nazarene University. She returned to Michigan soon after to complete her graduate degree – a master’s in education with an emphasis in college student affairs leadership from Grand Valley State University (GVSU). 

Along the way, Rowland worked at many higher education institutions, including Kendall College of Art and Design, Vanderbilt University, Davenport University, and GVSU, in various accounting roles, focusing on accounts payable, payroll, grant management and Title IX compliance. Her most recent job was outside higher education, working in the private sector for the last four years conducting internal investigations involving employee complaints and workplace policy violations. Her move to the private sector was an opportunity to strengthen investigation skills involving employment laws across the country. 

“I was in Title IX compliance with an interest in employment law,” Rowland said. “I sought out an opportunity to deepen my knowledge and skills in employee relations.” 

Now returning to higher education, Rowland felt the role of Vice President of Finance & Administration was a perfect fit – and the location was an added bonus. 

“When I saw the job, I was so excited,” she said. “It was ideal; it brought my entire career body of work and education full circle. It takes me back home to where I grew up, where I started my college experience. All of my experiences with fiscal management, employment law, and compliance fit into this role. I’m ready for it.” 

MCC President Dr. Bradley J. Barrick said Rowland’s extensive experience in higher education compliance and finance made her an exceptional candidate for the role. 

“We are thrilled that Theresa has joined our team,” Dr. Barrick said. “Theresa brings an exceptional blend of higher-education expertise and financial acumen that will strengthen our institution both strategically and operationally. 

“Her proven record of leadership, dedication and innovation makes her an outstanding addition to the college, and we look forward to the positive impact she will have on our students, faculty and community,” Dr. Barrick added. 

Rowland oversees the college’s Accounting Department, Business Office, Financial Aid Office, Information Technology Services Department, Facilities Department, and Human Resources Office. 

“I couldn’t have picked a better team,” Rowland said. “They are full of vision, energy, dedication, and passion to be here. I’m honored to serve with this team and within the MCC community.” 

Since arriving at MCC, Rowland has appreciated the ability to connect with a variety of individuals throughout the college, valuing their positive attitudes and welcoming demeanor. MCC has been a familiar and supportive environment for Rowland, and she’s looking forward to ensuring the bright future of the institution in her role. 

“This work is vital – community colleges play an essential role in strengthening the social and economic fabric of the communities they serve,” she said. “My goal is to ensure continuity and uphold our fiscal responsibilities with diligence and maximize our impact on students and the broader community. If I can leave this organization stronger than when I began – building on the incredible foundation Connie established – I will consider this transition a success.”