Middlesex Community College (MCC) has appointed Melissa Chandonnet as the new dean of K-16 partnerships, building on her previous role as interim dean of education and K-16 partnerships. With over 16 years of experience in higher education, Chandonnet aims to enhance existing collaborations with K-12 schools while also establishing new partnerships.
In her statement, Chandonnet emphasized the importance of robust K-16 partnerships. “We collaborate with a wide range of high schools across Massachusetts, each with unique strengths and needs,” she noted. “Strong K-16 partnerships can increase college enrollment, improve persistence, and better align education with workforce needs.” Her vision for the K-16 division at MCC focuses on dismantling barriers for students who may not initially view themselves as college-bound, ensuring they acquire the skills and support necessary for success.
Beginning in the fall 2025 semester, Chandonnet will work closely with MCC faculty and staff to reinforce the college’s connections with high school partners. Her responsibilities will include establishing new and reviewing current articulation agreements with high schools and four-year institutions. Additionally, she will lead the initiative to obtain accreditation from the National Alliance of Concurrent Enrollment Partnerships.
MCC offers high school students the opportunity to take college-level classes through dual and concurrent enrollment programs. The college collaborates with numerous high schools across the state, including Lowell High School, Nashoba Valley Technical High School, and a new partnership with Martha’s Vineyard, providing early college access at no cost. In Lowell, MCC also supports Pre-Collegiate TRIO and Gear Up programs, which aim to prepare students for college.
“These partnerships make it possible for students to see themselves as college students earlier, earn college credit while still in high school, and explore careers before graduation,” Chandonnet stated. “We’re committed to strengthening these partnerships to ensure students are provided with an inclusive and meaningful experience.”
Chandonnet’s educational background includes a bachelor’s degree in retail marketing and management with a concentration in psychology from Johnson and Wales University. Her involvement with service-learning during her senior year led to a project with a local elementary school. Following graduation, she served in AmeriCorps, coordinating peer mentorship opportunities within MCC’s Multicultural Office. These experiences ignited her passion for higher education and collaboration with community partners.
She began her career at MCC in the Multicultural Office and Office of Student Engagement, eventually launching the Jumpstart programs in collaboration with Northern Essex Community College. After obtaining a master’s degree in higher education administration from Southern New Hampshire University, she became MCC’s director of concurrent and dual enrollment. Under her leadership, the number of concurrent enrollment partners at MCC grew from 22 to over 40 in just six years.
Chandonnet expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to continue her work at MCC in this new capacity. “Community colleges play a critical role in expanding access to higher education. I wanted to work at an institution that not only changes individual lives but also strengthens the community it serves,” she said.
As she steps into her role as dean, Chandonnet is poised to make a significant impact on both students and the broader educational landscape in Massachusetts. Through her leadership, MCC aims to continue fostering pathways to higher education for all students, ensuring that they are well-prepared for their academic and professional futures.
