President

The University of Lynchburg (“UL”, “the University”, or “Lynchburg”) invites a bold, innovative, and collaborative leader to serve as the University’s 12^th President. The incoming President will join the University at a pivotal moment in its history, working with the entirety of the UL community to articulate a forward-looking vision and shared sense of identity for the University, building on institutional strengths and history while embracing future innovation.  

Nestled in the foothills of Virginia’s breathtaking Blue Ridge Mountains, the University of Lynchburg offers a deeply personalized and transformational educational experience. UL’s vision is to cultivate a world that is innovative, authentic, and inclusive, and it does so daily by carrying out its mission: to inspire independent thinkers who become trustworthy, effective leaders who shape caring communities. Recognized as one of only 45 “Colleges that Change Lives,” Lynchburg prides itself on being a place where students are known, mentored, and developed, both academically and personally. This is achieved through close relationships between faculty and students, a focus on the holistic college experience, and programs that empower students to reach their fullest potential. With a variety of undergraduate majors, minors, and certificate programs; 15 master’s programs; and four doctoral degrees, the University blends the best of a residential liberal arts education with excellent career outcomes, market-relevant professional programs, and a commitment to experiential learning and community engagement. Lynchburg is home to approximately 2,400 undergraduate and graduate students and 22 NCAA Division III athletic teams, including 450 scholar-athletes who embody excellence both on the field and in the classroom.

Reporting to the Board of Trustees, the President will embrace the exciting opportunity to shape the future of the University, boldly charting the course for a future that prioritizes unity and a sense of shared purpose, while bringing even greater stability and security to campus. The University has already undergone significant work to right-size, realign strategic priorities, and turn around a financial deficit, and the new President must build off that foundation as the University looks ahead. An entrepreneurial leader, the President will further differentiate the University of Lynchburg’s identity and value proposition to meet the challenges facing higher education today. They must bring a nuanced understanding of enrollment, strategic communications, prudent fiscal management, fundraising, and innovative program development at both the undergraduate and graduate levels to craft a strategic plan that sets the University of Lynchburg up for long-term sustainability and achievement, including successful accreditation reaffirmation. They will centralize student success and development; advocate for inclusion and belonging; nurture a culture of transparency, trust, and collaboration; expand philanthropic engagement and strengthen the University’s financial position; and serve as a dynamic ambassador and advocate within the Lynchburg community and surrounding region. The President is expected to be a visible and highly engaged leader on campus and beyond, fostering the strong sense of community that has fueled the University’s evolution and culture. 

Screening of complete applications will begin immediately and continue until the completion of the search process. Inquiries, nominations, referrals, and CVs with cover letters should be sent electronically and in confidence electronically below.

Natalie Leonhard and Elizabeth Weithman are leading this search with Afi Tettey-Fio and Kendra Moleé.

The University of Lynchburg is committed to creating a diverse community and does not discriminate based on race, color, national origin, sex, disability, or age in its programs and activities.