Dr. Christina Royal has been involved in education for over 15 years, in both academic (community college and private four-year institutions) and corporate environments. She currently serves as the President of Holyoke Community College. Prior to her presidency at HCC, she served as the Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs at Inver Hills Community College. She has worked with Chancellors of Higher Education, Vice Chancellors, and other state leaders to impact policy, improve student success, enhance quality curriculum standards, and improve articulation and transfer. She is engaged in local, state, and national communities of interest, including participating on state-wide, regional and local boards. Dr. Royal is also the recipient of the 2012 United States Distance Learning Association International Award for Outstanding Leadership by an Individual.

Dr. Royal earned a Doctorate in Education from Capella University, and a Master of Arts degree in Educational Psychology and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Mathematics, both from Marist College.