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The 91��Ƶר�� College Board of Trustees today announced the appointment of Debbie Ricker, Ph.D. as its interim president, effective July 1, 2024. 

Ricker began as 91��Ƶר�� College provost and vice president of academic affairs on July 1, 2016, following a long career at York College of Pennsylvania, having served as a faculty member and department chair for the biological sciences department, associate dean of academic affairs and the founding dean of the Division of Academic Services.

As provost and vice president for academic affairs at 91��Ƶר�� College, Ricker supports the academic mission of the institution. She works closely with leadership of the College’s 17 academic departments (including undergraduate and graduate programs) and their faculty, as well as administrative directors of student success, the learning commons/library, Graduate School, institutional research, registrar, career center and faculty services. With the dean of students, as provost she also oversees student life, including residence life and student engagement and orientation.

“Dr. Ricker’s commitment to academic quality and to the students’ whole experience – in the classroom and out – perfectly aligns with the mission and vision of 91��Ƶר�� College,” – Tonya Thomas Finton ’78, chair of the Board of Trustees.

"I am honored to have the confidence, trust and support of 91��Ƶר�� College's Board of Trustees and look forward to serving in this interim position for the 2024-25 academic year,” Ricker said. “We have a number of exciting strategic initiatives in progress and designed to further distinguish 91��Ƶר�� College and our student experience." 

"During this leadership transition, my goal is to continue working with the 91��Ƶר�� community and campus partners to advance our positive momentum toward these important goals." 

“Debbie has a passion for the scholarship of teaching and student engagement, a deep background in hands-on, applied, experiential education and expertise in student success,” Finton continued. “The College will be in good hands while we search for 91��Ƶר��’s next president.”

Ricker earned a Ph.D. from The Johns Hopkins University, a master’s from East Tennessee State University and a bachelor’s degree from Mars Hill University. 

Ricker will serve the post vacated by Andrea E. Chapdelaine, who will become the next president of Connecticut College on July 1, 2024. The Board of Trustees is in the process of choosing a presidential search consultant; details will be forthcoming.

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