President's Office

Sedgwick L. Harris, Ed.D., Appointed President of Bristol Community College

The Massachusetts Board of Higher Education has unanimously confirmed Sedgwick L. Harris, Ed.D., as the next president of Bristol Community College. Dr. Harris will officially take office in March, becoming the fifth president in the college’s 60-year history.

With over 25 years of experience in higher education administration, Dr. Harris is a recognized leader committed to student success, innovative program development, and workforce readiness. His expertise spans across strategic, data-driven planning, program design, and decision-making that fosters student access and achievement. A passionate advocate for student-centered learning, Dr. Harris is focused on ensuring that students at all stages of their academic journey receive the support they need to thrive.

“I am deeply honored to be named the next President of Bristol Community College,” said Dr. Harris. “I look forward to working collaboratively with faculty, staff, and the community to continue building on the college’s strengths and to ensure every student has the opportunity to succeed.”

Dr. Harris joins Bristol from Northampton Community College (NCC) in Bethlehem, Pa., where he has served as Vice President of Administrative Affairs since 2022. His previous roles include Vice President of Student Affairs and Enrollment at NCC, Vice President of Student Services at Kishwaukee College, and Director of Admissions and College Life at Kellogg Community College.

A Michigan native, Dr. Harris earned an Associate of Arts in Communications and Media Studies from Southwestern Michigan College, a Bachelor of Arts in Mass Communications from Northwestern Oklahoma State University, a Master of Arts in Educational Leadership from Western Michigan University, and a Doctor of Education in Community College Leadership from Ferris State University.

Dr. Harris succeeds Laura L. Douglas, who will retire on January 14 after seven years of dedicated service to Bristol Community College. Dr. Harris and his wife, Jamica, plan to relocate to the community.

Bristol Community College looks forward to the positive impact Dr. Harris will bring as it continues its mission to provide accessible, innovative and inclusive education that prepares students to navigate and succeed in our ever-changing world.

Read the announcement here.

View Dr. Harris's professional experience here.

Bristol Names Steve Kenyon as Interim President

As the college awaits the arrival of the new president, an interim leader will serve to ensure a smooth transition. The Board of Trustees named Steven Kenyon, Vice President for Administration and Finance, as the interim president. 

“Steven is a valued and respected member of the college community with 30 years of experience at Bristol," said Chair Medeiros. "His extensive knowledge of the college’s operations, commitment to its mission, and proven leadership make him uniquely qualified to lead during this transition.”

Steven Kenyon has served as the Vice President for Administration and Finance since 2002. In this role, he oversees the college’s financial operations, including managing an annual budget of $90 million.  Steven is also responsible for facilities, capital projects, campus police, business services and enterprise risk management. He regularly advises the president on administrative matters, playing a key role in the college’s growth and success. Steven plays an active role in the Board of Trustee committees.

Before becoming Vice President, Steven served as the college's comptroller from 1994 to 2002, managing daily fiscal operations such as general accounting, accounts payable, student accounts, payroll and grants. He has led financial audits, prepared budgets, and developed fiscal policies, contributing to the college’s financial health and operational efficiency. 

He volunteers on the boards of many community organizations including Greater Fall River Development Corporation, Argosy Charter School and Southcoast Health. He holds a Master of Business Administration from the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth and is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA), with memberships in several professional organizations.