Welcome Cardinal!
We’re elated to have you join the Cardinal family! At Labette, you're not just a student—you’re part of a community known for its positive spirit, strong academic reputation, and supportive learning environment.
Get ready for an exciting journey filled with quality learning opportunities—from hands-on labs to engaging classes taught by instructors who truly care about your success. Whether you’re here to start your college career, build new skills, or explore your passions, you’ve come to the right place.
And it’s not all about books and homework! LCC offers a variety of fun and exciting activities to keep your college experience full of energy and connection. Join student clubs, cheer at athletic events, attend campus socials, or jump into leadership opportunities—we’ve got something for everyone.
I may be a bit biased so don’t take it from me, below are a few student comments from a recent student survey.
“The reason I chose this college is not only because of the outstanding nursing program, but because how kind, friendly, and helpful ALL of the staff members I encountered were. I knew this would be a place I could thrive in. I LOVE LCC and would recommend it to anyone wanting to further their education.”
“This institution is incredibly easy to work with. I took one night class on campus, and the rest were online or dual credit through the high school I would recommend this to anyone, especially high school students. I was able to graduate with my associates the same time as I graduated high school because of LCC!”
“Love my school! I never thought I’d be back, but here I am, and I’m thriving! I’m happy to be a part of this great community, that treats me as if I’m family.”
We can’t wait to see all that you’ll achieve. Here’s to a fantastic year ahead—let’s make it unforgettable!
Go Cardinals!

Mark Watkins, Ed.D., President
President's Staff

Dr. Mark Watkins, Ed.D.
President
markw@labette.edu620-820-1223
620-421-0921
- A.A. Business Administration, Neosho County Community College, 1980
- BBA Business Administration, Pittsburg State University, 1983
- MBA Business Administration, Pittsburg State University, 1999
- Ed.S. Leadership and Community College, Pittsburg State University, 2005
- Distinguished Thesis Award, Pittsburg State University, 2006
- Ed.D. Doctor of Education, Educational Leadership, Wichita State University, 2011
Parsons Chamber of Commerce Member; Parsons Rotary Club, Member, Past Chapter President; Leadership Labette; Kansas Community College Leadership Institute

Dr. Jason Sharp, Ed.D.
Vice-President of Academic Affairs
jasons@labette.edu620-820-1255
620-421-2786
- A.G.S. - Labette Community College
- B.S. - Criminal Justice, Washburn University
- MCJ - Criminal Justice, Washburn University
- Ed.D. - Doctor of Education, Adult and Lifelong Learning, University of Arkansas
- Dissertation: Community College Students’ Perceptions of Law Enforcement
Parsons Lions Club Member; International Law Enforcement and Educators Association (ILEETA) Member; participant in several criminal justice advisory boards.

Leanna Doherty
Vice-President of Finance & Operations
leannan@labette.edu620-820-1231
620-421-0180
- A.A. - Labette Community College
- B.S. - Pittsburg State University, Pittsburg, KS
Parsons Lions Club; Kansas Society of CPA's; Member of Kansas Association of Community College Business Officers; Member of Friends of Crawford State Park

Kelly Kirkpatrick
Vice-President of Student Affairs
employee@labette.edu620-820-1268
620-421-0180
- B.S.Ed - Pittsburg State University, Pittsburg, KS
- M.S. - Pittsburg State University, Pittsburg, KS
American Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admissions Officers (AACRAO); Association of Veterans Education Certifying Officials (AVECO); Center for Academic Standards (CAS) Kansas Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admissions Officers (KACRAO); National Conference of Academic Advisors (NACADA); National College Attainment Network (NCAN); Beta Sigma Phi member, Chapter XP Beta Rho; P.E.O. member, Chapter JE; Stella Wells Christmas Baskets

Lindi Forbes
Director of Foundation & Alumni
lindif@labette.edu620-820-1212
620-421-2786
- A.G.S. - Labette Community College, Parsons, KS (1998)
- B.A. - Pittsburg State University, Pittsburg, KS
National Council for Marketing and Public Relations; LCC Student Ambassador Advisor; Labette County Youth Leadership Board; Presbyterian Manor Advisory Council; Parsons Chamber of Commerce Ambassador; Katy Days Publicity Committee; Parsons Young Professionals; Past Leadership Parsons Board Member

Hannah Kennedy
Director of Public Relations
hannahk@labette.edu620-820-1280
620-421-2786
- B.S.- Oklahoma State University (2024)
Bullet Racing Formula SAE, Social Media & Marketing Lead 2023-2024

Heidi Flora
Executive Assistant to the President and Board Clerk
heidif@labette.edu620-820-1223
620-421-0921
- A.A.S. - Labette Community College
Council to Advance Two-Year Colleges Executive Assistant; Kansas Chapter of Mom’s Demand Action; AKCCOP