Search | Menu The Madison College Cabinet and Academic Affairs Leadership Team work together to support the college's mission and strategic priorities. Reporting directly to the president, these leaders provide guidance and leadership across the college's academic, operational and administrative areas.
Through collaboration, planning and innovation, they guide decisions and initiatives that support student success, strengthen communities and advance the college's long-term goals.
Cabinet Members
Madison College's Cabinet provides strategic leadership and oversight for key areas of the college, helping to advance institutional goals and support student success. Together, the team guides college-wide initiatives, manages resources, strengthens partnerships and helps ensure Madison College remains responsive to the needs of learners, employees and the community.
Rose Buschhaus, Vice President
Human Resources, Equal Opportunity, and Civil Rights
Rose Buschhaus leads the college’s Human Resources, Equal Opportunity, and Civil Rights functions, supporting a workplace culture that advances employee engagement, compliance, and inclusive excellence across the institution.
With nearly 25 years of experience in human resources, Rose has served Madison College since 2009 in several progressively responsible roles, including associate vice president of human resources, director of employment and employee relations, and human resources business partner. Her deep institutional knowledge and expertise in employee relations, compliance, and organizational practices position her to effectively guide people-centered strategy at the college.
Rose holds a law degree and a master’s degree in law from the University of New Hampshire Franklin Pierce School of Law, as well as a bachelor’s degree in environmental science from Purdue University. She is also a certified Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR) and SHRM Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP).
Tim Casper, Executive Vice President
Student Affairs
Dr. Tim Casper leads the college’s Student Affairs division, focusing on advancing student success through strategies that enhance engagement, persistence, and completion both inside and outside the classroom.
Since joining Madison College in 2011, Dr. Casper has spearheaded institution-wide efforts to improve student course success and engagement. Prior to his work at the college, he held senior leadership roles in state government, including deputy secretary of the Wisconsin Department of Revenue and senior adviser to Governor Jim Doyle. His career also includes positions with the Wisconsin Department of Health and Family Services, the Wisconsin Legislature, and the University of Wisconsin–Madison, bringing a broad public service perspective to student success initiatives.
Dr. Casper earned a bachelor’s degree in urban studies from the University of Wisconsin–Green Bay, a master’s degree in public affairs and administration from the University of Wisconsin–Madison, and a doctorate in education leadership from Edgewood University.
Mel Charbonneau, Vice President
Marketing and Communications
mcharbonneau@madisoncollege.edu
Mel Charbonneau leads the college’s comprehensive marketing and communications strategy, overseeing brand management, web and digital experience, media relations, crisis communications, and institutional messaging across all platforms.
Mel brings a blend of higher education and entrepreneurial experience to her role. Prior to joining Madison College, she spent more than a decade building and growing a successful e-commerce brand. Earlier in her career, she held leadership roles in higher education spanning marketing, communications, alumni relations, fundraising, and event management. Her expertise centers on authentic storytelling and creating cohesive, impactful messaging that strengthens institutional visibility and engagement.
She holds a master’s degree in journalism and mass communications from the University of Wisconsin–Madison and a bachelor’s degree in public relations from Northern Michigan University.
Cory Chrisinger, Vice President
Technology Services
cchrisinger@madisoncollege.edu
Cory Chrisinger leads Technology Services, overseeing the college’s IT infrastructure, information security, systems and network operations, and technology strategy to support teaching, learning, and institutional effectiveness.
With more than 20 years of experience in higher education IT, Cory has worked across multiple institutions including the University of Wisconsin–Madison, UW Colleges and Extension, and Madison College. His expertise spans information security, risk management, systems engineering, and IT leadership. He also serves as the technical college representative on the WiscNet Board of Directors, contributing to statewide technology initiatives.
Cory holds a bachelor’s degree in telecommunications management from DeVry University, is a Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), and is a graduate of the WLDI Academy for Leadership and Development.
Damira Grady, Vice President
Organizational Impact and Culture
Dr. Damira Grady leads Organizational Impact and Culture, advancing strategies that foster inclusive excellence, employee engagement, and a culture of belonging across the college.
Dr. Grady brings extensive experience in higher education leadership focused on equity and inclusion. She previously served as associate vice chancellor of academic support for inclusive excellence and as university diversity officer at the University of Wisconsin–Oshkosh. Her earlier work includes roles at Milwaukee Area Technical College and Gateway Technical College, where she supported adult education, student services, and counseling. She has also taught in both technical colleges and universities and has led numerous training and education initiatives centered on equity and inclusion.
She holds a doctorate in higher education from Cardinal Stritch University, a master’s degree in educational psychology, and a bachelor’s degree in educational studies. She is also a licensed professional counselor.
Sylvia Ramirez, Executive Vice President
Finance and Administration
Dr. Sylvia Ramirez leads Finance and Administration, overseeing the college’s financial operations, budgeting, and administrative services in support of institutional sustainability and student success.
Since joining Madison College in 2014, Dr. Ramirez has been dedicated to advancing the college’s financial stewardship and operational effectiveness. Prior to her work at Madison College, she held roles at the University of Wisconsin Colleges, the University of Wisconsin–Madison, and the University of Florida, bringing a strong background in public higher education administration.
Dr. Ramirez earned a bachelor’s degree in English from the University of Florida, a master's degree in public affairs and a doctorate in educational leadership and policy analysis from the University of Wisconsin–Madison.
Mark Thomas, Executive Vice President
Policy and Strategy
Dr. Mark Thomas leads Policy and Strategy, guiding the college’s strategic planning, policy development, and enterprise-level decision-making to advance institutional goals and long-term sustainability.
Dr. Thomas has served Madison College for over a decade in several senior leadership roles, including chief strategy officer, chief operating officer, and chief financial officer. His experience also spans 20 years in executive leadership across the public, private, and nonprofit sectors, where he held roles such as chief of staff, chief administrative officer, budget director, and chief financial officer. In addition to his leadership work, he has taught finance and administration at multiple universities.
He holds a doctorate in higher education administration from Edgewood University, a graduate certificate in education management from Harvard University, a master’s degree in public policy from the University of Chicago, and a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Western Michigan University.
Academic Affairs Leadership Team
Madison College's Academic Affairs Leadership Team provides collaborative leadership for the college's academic enterprise, guiding innovation, excellence and student success across all areas of teaching and learning.
Together, the team supports academic programs, faculty development, student access and achievement, workforce and community partnerships, and educational opportunities that empower learners and strengthen our communities.
