Dr. Kathryn Rogalski Appointed as 12th President of Grand Rapids Community College

The Grand Rapids Community College (GRCC) Board of Trustees has made a significant move in furthering the college's mission by naming Dr. Kathryn Rogalski as its 12th president after a thorough national search. Scheduled to begin her tenure in 2026, Dr. Rogalski's appointment marks an exciting chapter for GRCC, as she brings a wealth of experience and a strong commitment to enhancing student outcomes.

Dr. Rogalski, who is currently serving as vice president of academic affairs and workforce development at Northeast Wisconsin Technical College (NWTC), has been instrumental in overseeing a $55 million division, aligning academic programs and workforce development initiatives to bolster regional economic vitality. With a solid track record exceeding 25 years in higher education leadership, she has a proven commitment to student success, community partnerships, and preparing students for the workforce.

As expressed by Dr. Brandy Lovelady Mitchell, chair of the GRCC Board of Trustees, Dr. Rogalski stands out as a highly respected academic leader whose vision and values resonate closely with GRCC’s objectives. Her history of advancing student success, improving workforce pathways, and managing complex organizational changes has positioned her as an ideal fit for leading the institution into its next phase.

During her leadership at NWTC, Dr. Rogalski played a critical role in various transformative efforts. These accomplishments include leading the college-wide transition from traditional 15-week semesters to more intensive eight-week semesters, aimed at enhancing student persistence and completion rates. Furthermore, she successfully secured a $2.25 million federal Title III grant focused on expanding high-impact teaching practices, and fostered strengthened partnerships with K-12 districts, universities, and local employers to create a more interconnected educational ecosystem.

Before her tenure at NWTC, Dr. Rogalski held senior academic leadership roles at William Rainey Harper College and College of Lake County in Illinois. There, she was pivotal in advancing curriculum innovation and apprenticeship programs, as well as overseeing faculty development and student advising initiatives. Her career path began in institutional research and academic advising, and she has also lent her expertise as an adjunct faculty member in psychology.

Her impressive academic credentials include a Doctor of Education in adult and higher education from Northern Illinois University, a Master of Arts from the University of Chicago, and a Bachelor of Arts from Northeastern Illinois University, through which she graduated cum laude. Dr. Rogalski's involvement in higher education extends beyond her roles at various academic institutions; she is also a recognized Aspen Institute Rising Presidents Fellow and actively contributes to national organizations focused on workforce development.

As GRCC approaches this new era under Dr. Rogalski's leadership, the institution anticipates a bright future. Additional information and updates on her presidency will be shared as they develop.

About Grand Rapids Community College

Founded in 1914, Grand Rapids Community College was Michigan’s first community college and has since dedicated itself to providing affordable and accessible education to individuals of all ages. The college offers diverse academic pathways leading to degrees, certificates, and opportunities that align with in-demand career skills, with courses available across multiple campuses in Grand Rapids and Holland, as well as online.

As GRCC prepares to welcome Dr. Kathryn Rogalski, the college community looks forward to embracing innovative strategies and enhanced educational opportunities that will further enrich the learning environment and support student achievement.