John C. Volin Appointed as President of Gustavus Adolphus College
Gustavus Adolphus College, known for its commitment to liberal arts education, has officially appointed Dr. John C. Volin as its 18th President, effective August 15, 2025. This decision follows a unanimous vote by the Board of Trustees and comes as a significant shift in leadership from the retiring president, Rebecca M. Bergman, who has been at the helm since 2015.
Dr. Volin, currently serving as the Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs and Provost at the University of Maine, brings a wealth of experience in higher education to his new role. His background includes positions at Florida Atlantic University and the University of Connecticut, where he made marked contributions within various faculty and administrative roles. Having established himself as a leader committed to holistic student well-being and evidence-based educational practices, Dr. Volin's vision aligns well with Gustavus's mission.
In addressing the college community, Marcia Page, Chair of the Board, expressed enthusiasm about Dr. Volin's innovative approach to higher education. She stressed the importance of his leadership in enhancing the residential liberal arts experience, which is crucial for preparing students to navigate an increasingly complex world. Dr. Volin shared similar sentiments, emphasizing Gustavus's unique position to leverage its academic strengths and enrich its transformative educational offerings.
Dr. Volin holds a bachelor's degree in botany and biology, a master's in agronomy, and a PhD in forestry - qualifications that reflect his deep engagement with science and education. His accolades and professional journey are complemented by a personal connection to South Dakota, where he was born and raised. He will join his wife, Valeria, and their family - which includes five children and six grandchildren - on campus, along with their ten-month-old golden retriever.
Looking ahead, Dr. Volin steps into the role of President during a time of growth for Gustavus. Recent initiatives have seen the college significantly enhance its endowment, commence major building projects, and revamp the general education curriculum to better serve students’ diverse needs. His predecessor, President Bergman, noted her excitement in transitioning leadership, acknowledging the passionate community supporting the college's ongoing success.
The selection process for the new president was collaborative and thorough, featuring over 60 applicants and involving various stakeholders from students to faculty, staff, and trustees. Suzanne Boda, a Trustee and Search Chair, reflected on Dr. Volin's strong leadership qualities that stood out during the selection process, suggesting he will effectively shape the future of Gustavus.
With Dr. Volin at the helm, the college anticipates a promising future that continues to uphold its reputation as a leading institution for liberal arts education. His dynamic background and commitment to student-centered approaches are expected to propel Gustavus Adolphus College to new heights, further enriching the lives of its students and the broader community it serves.
Dr. Volin, currently serving as the Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs and Provost at the University of Maine, brings a wealth of experience in higher education to his new role. His background includes positions at Florida Atlantic University and the University of Connecticut, where he made marked contributions within various faculty and administrative roles. Having established himself as a leader committed to holistic student well-being and evidence-based educational practices, Dr. Volin's vision aligns well with Gustavus's mission.
In addressing the college community, Marcia Page, Chair of the Board, expressed enthusiasm about Dr. Volin's innovative approach to higher education. She stressed the importance of his leadership in enhancing the residential liberal arts experience, which is crucial for preparing students to navigate an increasingly complex world. Dr. Volin shared similar sentiments, emphasizing Gustavus's unique position to leverage its academic strengths and enrich its transformative educational offerings.
Dr. Volin holds a bachelor's degree in botany and biology, a master's in agronomy, and a PhD in forestry - qualifications that reflect his deep engagement with science and education. His accolades and professional journey are complemented by a personal connection to South Dakota, where he was born and raised. He will join his wife, Valeria, and their family - which includes five children and six grandchildren - on campus, along with their ten-month-old golden retriever.
Looking ahead, Dr. Volin steps into the role of President during a time of growth for Gustavus. Recent initiatives have seen the college significantly enhance its endowment, commence major building projects, and revamp the general education curriculum to better serve students’ diverse needs. His predecessor, President Bergman, noted her excitement in transitioning leadership, acknowledging the passionate community supporting the college's ongoing success.
The selection process for the new president was collaborative and thorough, featuring over 60 applicants and involving various stakeholders from students to faculty, staff, and trustees. Suzanne Boda, a Trustee and Search Chair, reflected on Dr. Volin's strong leadership qualities that stood out during the selection process, suggesting he will effectively shape the future of Gustavus.
With Dr. Volin at the helm, the college anticipates a promising future that continues to uphold its reputation as a leading institution for liberal arts education. His dynamic background and commitment to student-centered approaches are expected to propel Gustavus Adolphus College to new heights, further enriching the lives of its students and the broader community it serves.
Topics Other）
【About Using Articles】
You can freely use the title and article content by linking to the page where the article is posted.
※ Images cannot be used.
【About Links】
Links are free to use.