Lori Erica Varlotta Appointed as New President of Antioch University

Lori Erica Varlotta Named as New President of Antioch University

On May 8, 2025, Antioch University shared an exciting announcement regarding its new leadership. Dr. Lori Erica Varlotta has been selected as the incoming President of the university. Alongside this role, she will also assume the position of Executive Vice President of the Coalition for the Common Good (CCG), starting on August 11, 2025. Dr. Varlotta is poised to lead the university with a strong vision that emphasizes progressive education and a keen focus on social, racial, environmental, and economic justice.

A Vision for the Future

Lori Erica Varlotta brings an inspiring background and dedication to the values that have long defined Antioch University. “This position draws profoundly on my life's work,” she expressed, highlighting the significant responsibilities that come with guiding an institution founded on principles of democratic engagement and social responsibility.

Katrin Dambrot, Chair of the Board of Governors, praised Varlotta as a leader who embodies Antioch's mission. She emphasized that the incoming president will collaborate closely with board members, faculty, students, and staff to cultivate democratic practices, broaden access to education, and promote the public good. Varlotta's approach aligns seamlessly with the university's commitment to academic excellence, experiential learning, and community involvement.

Commitment to Core Values

Dr. Varlotta is deeply inspired by Antioch's historical role in advocating for humanity. She stated, “In today’s divided world, it’s vital to lead with generosity, curiosity, and respect.” Her aspiration is to work collaboratively with Antioch's diverse community to ensure that these values remain central to teaching and learning.

The significance of her dual appointment as President and Executive Vice President of the Coalition for the Common Good opens new avenues for national academic leadership. According to John Comerford, President of the CCG and Otterbein University, Varlotta is an innovative thinker capable of finding opportunities in challenges. He believes she is perfectly suited to facilitate the Coalition’s progress.

A Strong Background in Education

Varlotta's career in higher education spans several decades, beginning in 1985 as a residence hall director. Most recently, she served as a Distinguished Professor of Higher Education Leadership at California Lutheran University, where she was President from 2020 to 2024. Her previous experience includes serving as President of Hiram College from 2014 to 2020 and held the role of Senior Vice President at California State University, Sacramento, managing critical areas like student affairs and diversity initiatives.

She will be succeeding William R. Groves, JD, who has been Chancellor since 2016. Groves has played a pivotal role in strengthening the university's legal framework and governance during his tenure.

About Antioch University

Antioch University, founded with a mission to empower individuals through education, is dedicated to providing learner-centered programs that foster leadership and social responsibility. It offers diverse educational pathways through its five campuses located in Keene, NH; Los Angeles and Santa Barbara, CA; Seattle, WA; and Yellow Springs, OH, catering to nearly 4,000 students.

About the Coalition for the Common Good (CCG)

The CCG, co-founded by Antioch University and Otterbein University, is dedicated to advancing education that cultivates democracy, social justice, and engaged citizenship. The Coalition seeks to optimize resources, lower costs for students, and expand opportunities for degree and non-degree education.

As Lori Erica Varlotta steps into these pivotal roles, there is a collective anticipation of what her leadership will achieve for both Antioch University and the Coalition for the Common Good, positioning them to address current social challenges and champion educational reform in a rapidly evolving world.