Cheryl Norman photo

Cheryl Norman

Central Lakes College

Brainerd, MN
United States

2025-2026
Aspen Rising Presidents Fellow

A strategic and equity-driven leader, Cheryl Norman is a thoughtful and student-centered leader dedicated to fostering academic excellence, equity, and institutional sustainability. With experience in both academic and student affairs, she works collaboratively to support student success, develop responsive programs, and strengthen partnerships with community and industry stakeholders.

As Vice President of Academic and Student Affairs at Central Lakes College, Cheryl provides leadership in academic programming, student services, and institutional planning. She oversees initiatives that support equitable student outcomes, including an equity-focused academic analysis, accreditation compliance, and operational improvements. She also works to strengthen Case Management Advising by ensuring that every student is assigned an advisor and has regular touchpoints to stay on track.

A key focus of Cheryl’s work has been growing and developing programs that align with workforce and community needs. She collaborates with faculty, industry partners, and local organizations to ensure new and existing programs provide relevant, high-quality educational opportunities. Through these efforts, she helps position the college as a key resource for regional economic development.

Additionally, Cheryl is actively contributing to the development of a bold and compelling Strategic Plan to guide CLC’s work over the next five years. This ongoing effort aims to reaffirm the college’s mission to “build futures” by promoting upward social mobility and establishing strategies and accountability metrics that enhance student success, including improved transfer rates and baccalaureate completion.

Cheryl values transparency, collaboration, and continuous improvement. She recognizes the challenges that come with change and works to engage faculty, staff, and community partners in meaningful conversations to guide decision-making.