Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts (MCLA) and its executive search partner WittKieffer invite nominations and applications for the position of President.
MCLA seeks a dynamic and visionary leader to serve as its next President, reporting directly to the Board of Trustees. As the chief executive officer, the President will oversee all aspects of the college’s operations, including academic programs, financial management, strategic planning, and compliance with applicable laws and policies. The President will lead a team of accomplished senior administrators and play a pivotal role in shaping the institution’s future, ensuring academic excellence, student success, and institutional sustainability.
Founded in 1894, MCLA has a proud tradition as a top-ranked public liberal arts college, consistently recognized by U.S. News & World Report among the nation’s best. With more than 70 undergraduate and graduate programs and an alumni network of over 21,000, MCLA prepares students for success through rigorous academics, experiential learning, and numerous leadership opportunities.
MCLA stands at a critical juncture in its history, presenting an extraordinary opportunity for bold and innovative leadership. The college has recently adopted a strategic plan, Finding Our Voice, which emphasizes clarifying MCLA’s identity, continuing its legacy of providing access to education in an inclusive environment, and enhancing the student experience. The next President will be charged with implementing this plan, driving enrollment growth, ensuring financial stability, and positioning MCLA as a leader in public liberal arts education. Central to this effort will be the development of a comprehensive enrollment strategy addressing recent declines while also improving student persistence and completion rates.
The President will serve as the primary spokesperson for MCLA, articulating a compelling narrative that reflects its unique mission and diverse academic offerings. This includes strengthening relationships with internal and external stakeholders, from faculty and staff to alumni, donors, and community partners in the Berkshires and beyond. Building on the success of the college’s historic Pathways campaign, the President will also advance fundraising efforts, cultivate donor relationships, and expand MCLA’s network of champions to support future initiatives.
In addition to strategic leadership, the President must demonstrate a deep commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion, ensuring that all members of the MCLA community feel valued and supported. The ideal candidate will possess exceptional communication skills, high emotional intelligence, and the ability to inspire confidence and collaboration across constituencies. Professional qualifications include an earned doctorate (or, in exceptional cases, a master’s degree) and substantial senior leadership experience, preferably in higher education, as well as an understanding of the liberal arts. The President must be adept at policy development, budget oversight, and navigating complex organizational challenges with diplomacy and transparency.
As MCLA approaches its 135th anniversary, its next President will build on the college’s storied history, guiding the institution toward a future of innovation, growth, and continued excellence in serving students and communities in Massachusetts and beyond.
WittKieffer is assisting MCLA with this search. For fullest consideration, candidate materials should be received by Friday, March 13th, 2026. All applications, nominations, and inquiries are invited. Applications should include, as two separate documents, a CV or resume and a letter of interest addressing the themes in the Leadership Profile.
Applications, nominations and inquiries can be directed to: Greg Duyck, Melody Rose, Ph.D., and Natalie Song at [email protected].