DURANGO, Colo. — Fort Lewis College (FLC) has officially launched a national search for its next president, seeking a visionary leader to continue championing the college’s diversity, innovation, and economic development mission.

The new president is expected to embrace FLC’s unique role as a Native American-Serving Non-Tribal Institution and as a convener for the Four Corners region's arts, sciences, and economic vitality. The next president will build on FLC's strong foundation while fostering educational excellence and expanding the college’s role in regional, state, and national growth and development.

“In our listening sessions, we heard from the community that FLC’s next president should not only share our values but also bring a sense of humor, a bold vision, and a willingness to tackle challenges,” said Janet Lopez, chair of the Presidential Search Committee and a member of the Board of Trustees. “We are excited to begin this search for a leader who will continue to drive FLC forward.”

Fort Lewis College is home to approximately 3,400 students, more than half of whom are students of color, primarily Native American and Hispanic/Latinx. In addition, 36% of the students are Pell-eligible, and 44% are first-generation. This year, FLC’s student body represented 113 Native American Tribes and Alaskan villages, making it one of the most diverse campuses in Colorado. The college’s faculty of 240-plus members are nationally recognized for their innovative teaching and research, securing over $38 million in grants last year alone.

“FLC is a truly unique institution with a dedicated and talented faculty and staff, a diverse student body, and an incredibly supportive community,” said Mary Rubadeau, chair of the Board of Trustees. “With a clear focus on student success, FLC is reaching record-breaking fundraising goals, increasing student enrollment, developing new programs in response to workforce needs, leading a process for reconciliation, and leveraging partnerships to augment our strategic goals. We are eager to find a leader who will build on this positive trajectory of success.” 

The new president will follow Tom Stritikus, who served as FLC’s president for six years before stepping down in May to become president of Occidental College. Steve Schwartz, FLC’s vice president for finance and administration, has served as interim president since May and has said he will not be a candidate for the permanent position.

Fort Lewis College plays a vital role in workforce development and regional collaboration through initiatives like Opportunity NOW, a statewide grant program connecting students to internships, job training, and career opportunities. In addition, the FLC Foundation has secured unprecedented support, raising nearly $21 million in 2023-2024 alone. These funds have supported significant projects, including the CU Nursing Fort Lewis College Collaborative, the new Katz School of Business, and reconciliation initiatives tied to FLC’s historical legacy.

As the search for FLC’s next president begins, the Board of Trustees and the Presidential Search Committee remain committed to selecting a leader who will continue to uphold the college’s mission of academic excellence, inclusivity, and community partnership.

Find more information about FLC’s presidential search.

 

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