Colorado College (in Colorado Springs) has officially named Dr. Manya Whitaker its 15th president, continuing a historic chapter in the school’s leadership and marking a vote of confidence in one of its own. The announcement came Tuesday from the college’s Board of Trustees and follows Whitaker’s year of service as interim president, a role she began on July 1, 2024.

Whitaker now becomes the second Black woman to lead the college, following Dr. L. Song Richardson, who served as the 14th president from 2021 to 2023.

Whitaker previously served as Richardson’s Executive Vice President and Chief of Staff, guiding Colorado College through major initiatives focused on equity, academics, and community engagement.

“Dr. Whitaker brought compassion, clarity, and a strong sense of purpose to her interim role,” said Board Chair Jeff Keller. “She’s earned the full trust of the campus and the community.”

During her interim year, Whitaker led the college through several significant milestones, including its 150th-anniversary celebration, a successful fundraising year, and a new Carnegie Foundation designation recognizing CC as a top-tier Research College. Her steady leadership during this time helped position the college for long-term success.

A Vision for the Future

Dr. Whitaker brings to the role a deep understanding of Colorado College and a clear, people-focused vision for its future.

Her approach centers on strengthening the college from the inside out—by investing in students, faculty, and staff, supporting honest conversations across campus, and staying true to CC’s distinctive liberal arts mission. She wants Colorado College to be where people feel supported, where tough topics can be discussed honestly and with care, and where students learn how to lead with empathy and purpose.

“It’s been an incredible honor to serve this community—as a professor, an administrator, and as interim president,” Whitaker said. “Every day, I’m inspired by our students’ passion, our faculty’s brilliance, and our staff’s dedication. I look forward to building on our strengths and shaping an even brighter future together.”

A Familiar Face on Campus

Dr. Whitaker has been part of Colorado College for 14 years as a professor of education, department chair, and director of several campus centers. As a developmental psychologist, she has studied how young people form their identities and develop motivation and has published four books on education and equity.

Born and raised in Virginia, Whitaker earned her Ph.D. in developmental psychology from Vanderbilt University and her bachelor’s degree from Dartmouth College.

About the College

Colorado College is a private, nonprofit liberal arts college in downtown Colorado Springs. Founded in 1874, it is known for its innovative Block Plan, where students take one course at a time in immersive three-and-a-half-week terms. The college enrolls about 2,200 undergraduates and continues to grow in diversity and reach.

Today, about 27% of students identify as students of color, with 5% from other countries. The school has also increased efforts to support students from broader economic backgrounds.

Colorado College is a private institution governed by an independent Board of Trustees and funded through a combination of tuition, endowment, and philanthropic support.

A Moment for Colorado Springs

Colorado College plays a significant role in the city’s life as both an academic institution and a cultural and economic driver. Local leaders have expressed optimism that Whitaker’s leadership will strengthen the connection between the campus and the community.

“She represents not only strong leadership but also a clear commitment to the values this city holds dear—education, equity, and collaboration,” said incoming Board Chair Kyle Samuel.

DWN

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