Columbia College Community,
Today, I begin my service as the 19th President of Columbia College with deep gratitude and a strong sense of responsibility. I consider it an honor to join a community defined by educational opportunity and an unwavering commitment to student success. As we celebrate 175 years of improving lives, we recognize the importance of integrating strategic growth with continued disciplined stewardship.
I am grateful for the foundation laid by our Board of Trustees and 18th President Dr. David Russell. Their leadership has positioned us well for the work ahead. Now, we must build on that stability with clarity of purpose and focused execution.
To our students: You are the reason we are here. Whether you study on main campus, online or at one of our nationwide locations, you belong at Columbia College. Whether you are first-generation, a veteran or a working adult, we are here for you. Our responsibility is to provide strong academics, accessible support, and an environment where you can grow with confidence and purpose.
To our faculty: You are the academic heart of this institution. The success of our students begins with your expertise, scholarship and dedication. As someone who has spent much of my career working alongside faculty, I believe strong institutions depend on meaningful shared governance and a faculty voice in academic matters. I value that partnership deeply and look forward to engaging with faculty and academic leaders across the College.
To our staff: You are the backbone of Columbia College. Your work makes everything else possible. My commitment is to strengthen alignment, remove unnecessary barriers and ensure our systems support the important work you do every day. The institution runs on your competence, your care and your commitment to getting things right for our students and our community.
To our 100,000 alumni worldwide: Your achievements are the clearest expression of Columbia College’s promise. Wherever life has taken you, you represent the resilience and purpose that define this College. Your continued engagement will help shape what comes next.
To our friends and supporters: Whether your connection began in a classroom, through a family member, through partnership, philanthropy or shared belief in our mission, your commitment sustains and strengthens this community. You are part of the fabric of CC.
We stand at an important moment for Columbia College. We have the opportunity not only to honor our history but to shape what our institution will become for the next generation. I look forward to listening, learning and working alongside each and every one of you.
Together, we will write the next chapter of Columbia College.
With respect and genuine excitement,
President, Columbia College
