Heather Harms

Director of Trio Student Support Services
Albert Lea, Minnesota, United States

Professional Overview

Heather Harms is a seasoned education professional with over 20 years of experience in student support services and special education. As the Director of Trio Student Support Services at Riverland Community College, she oversees a comprehensive program dedicated to enhancing academic success and improving college completion rates for underrepresented student populations.

Experience Summary

Current Role

Heather has served as the Director of Trio Student Support Services at Riverland Community College since November 2023. In this role, she is responsible for managing a team of professionals who provide holistic support services to eligible students, including academic advising, tutoring, financial aid counseling, and career development. Under her leadership, the Trio program has achieved record-high student retention and graduation rates, positively impacting the lives of countless students.

Career Progression

Prior to her current position, Heather held the role of Director of Special Education at several school districts in Minnesota, where she led the development and implementation of individualized education plans, coordinated with interdisciplinary teams, and advocated for the rights of students with diverse learning needs. Earlier in her career, she served as a Special Education Case Facilitator at Albert Lea Area Schools, honing her skills in case management, student advocacy, and collaborative problem-solving.

Academic Background

Heather holds a Master's degree in Special Education from the University of Minnesota, where she specialized in inclusive teaching practices and assistive technology integration. She has also completed additional coursework in educational leadership and student support services, demonstrating her commitment to continuous professional development.

Areas of Expertise

• Student support program management

• Special education and inclusive education

• Academic advising and retention strategies

• Collaborative leadership and team building

• Grants and funding acquisition

• Data analysis and program evaluation

Professional Impact

Throughout her career, Heather has spearheaded numerous initiatives to enhance educational equity and student success. As the Director of Special Education, she implemented innovative teaching methods, secured grant funding to expand support services, and fostered strong partnerships with community organizations. In her current role, Heather has been instrumental in securing additional funding for the Trio program, enabling the expansion of services and the implementation of personalized student support plans.

Conclusion

Heather Harms is a dedicated and accomplished education professional who has consistently demonstrated her commitment to empowering students and advancing educational equity. With her extensive experience, strategic leadership, and unwavering dedication, she is poised to continue making a meaningful impact on the lives of the students and communities she serves.