Heather Bigard

Heather Bigard

Consulting Director

Dr. Heather Bigard joined focusEDU in April of 2025 with over 25 years of mission-centered transformational leadership experience in organizational development, strategic planning, talent management, finance, academic and student affairs, enrollment management, resource cultivation, and partnership development across both public and private institutions. As the first female president and CEO of Lake-Sumter State College, Dr. Bigard led the institution through a period of significant growth and cultural change, increasing enrollment by 30%, expanding workforce and academic programs, and securing major legislative funding for new facilities. Under her leadership, the college achieved the designation of a Hispanic Serving Institution, expanded locations, and launched innovative initiatives such as LakeWorks, which built critical partnerships with K-12, technical centers, and industry to meet regional workforce demands. In previous roles, Dr. Bigard has served as a provost, executive vice president, and chief financial officer where she stabilized finances, implemented comprehensive strategic plans, improved enrollment, developed high-performing teams, and drove operational excellence through data-driven decision-making and process innovation. She is passionate about creating access and supporting student success by aligning programs and resources to scale mission impact. A first-generation college graduate, Dr. Bigard holds a Doctor of Education in Higher Education and Organizational Change, a Master of Science in Management and Organizational Behavior, and a Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting and Finance. She is recognized for her collaborative leadership, commitment to student success, and ability to build high-impact community partnerships. Dr. Bigard is a frequent panelist, board member, and recipient of numerous leadership awards, including being named one of the Top 50 Women Leaders of Orlando in 2024.