When ECC President Peggy Heinrich stepped into the president’s office, she did not only assume the helm of the institution, she shattered a 75-year-old ceiling. Beginning on January 1, 2025, Heinrich became the college’s ninth president and notably the first woman to ever hold the position. 

Having spent 19 years at ECC in various leadership roles, from joining the college in 2007 as  Associate Dean of Adult Education to Vice President of Teaching, Learning, and Student Development, Heinrich brings deep institutional knowledge to her role. Reflecting on the moment, Heinrich shared her gratitude to the community.

“I hope that female students and students in general can find me being the first female president at ECC to be motivating but most importantly possible,” Heinrich said.

As ECC’s first woman president, Heinrich does not label the moment solely as a celebration of breaking a glass ceiling, though she embraces that part of the story. She emphasizes instead that her focus lies on renewal, access, equity, and student-outcomes. 

“President Heinrich has always shown a level of enthusiasm for her role as president and also for interacting with students. A key trait I would use to describe her is that she is very outgoing and is always willing to try something new, especially with attending public school events.” stated Board of Trustees Student Member, Daniel Gidlund. 

Heinrich’s vision for ECC touches on very important interlocking priorities with one of those being student success beyond graduation. Heinrich underscores that it is not enough for students to earn a credential. 

“We want to make sure that they are thriving after they leave us, whether that means transferring to a four-year university or launching directly into the workforce.”

Another priority is strengthening the institution’s role as a bridge between education and industry. ECC’s upcoming Manufacturing and Technology Center (scheduled for fall 2026 under building S) exemplifies this ambition. Heinrich sees it as a way to tightly align ECC’s programs with the evolving needs of the workforce.  

Deepening community partnerships is another one of the president’s whereabouts and focuses. Heinrich places a premium on bolstering ties with local businesses, school districts and other community institutions. 

On the matter of being the first woman to hold the presidency, Heinrich is thoughtful and grounded. 

“When becoming the president, I never had thought that I would be the first female to hold the title here at ECC. While it is a huge milestone, I am just a human being that happens to be a female in this position. Anyone can be a leader.” 

Her leadership style is poised to reflect values such as being collaborative, inclusive, and student-centered. 

“I wake up every morning wondering how lucky I am to be able to show up to work because of president Heinrich. She is the perfect president for this time and is truly a breath of fresh air.” stated Senior Executive Assistant to the president, Diane Kerruish. 

Without a doubt, Heinrich is upfront about the challenges. Shifting student demographics, rapid changes in technology and industry demand, pressures on funding and the persistent equity gap are realities the president must address. Yet, she frames those challenges as opportunities. 

“ECC has been named among top 200 U.S. community colleges eligible for the 2027 Aspen Prize which makes us very proud and tells us that we are doing something right.” stated Heinrich when asked to describe the current state of the school.

Heinrich’s presidency marks both a new chapter for ECC and a reaffirmation of the institution’s core mission: to be a community anchor, a launchpad for diverse learners, and a partner in regional economic vitality.

To her being the first female president is meaningful, but what matters even more is the promise of what will follow under her leadership.