April 28, 2020

COLUMBIA, SC – (April 26, 2020) Today, Columbia College Board of Trustees announced its presidential search and the selection of R. William Funk and Associates, a leading national search firm, as its partner in the search for the College’s 20th president.

This announcement follows the decision by Incumbent President, Dr. Carol A. Moore, to step down last month, after a four-year tenure. Currently, former Columbia College President, Dr. Peter Mitchell, is serving as the Interim President. In this search, the College is seeking someone who can execute on the strategic vision and its emphasis on Excellence, Relevance, Innovation and Leadership (https://www.columbiasc.edu/about/envisioning-the-future) and provide effective and collaborative leadership 

R. William Funk and Associates bring over 35 years of experience recruiting leaders for institutions of higher education and have assisted in recruiting more than 425 college and university presidents and chancellors for institutions small and large.  The firm has been recognized for its work in recruiting woman and minorities to senior levels of higher education.

Founded in 1854 as a private liberal arts women’s college, Columbia College will become coeducational this fall. The next president will be charged with leading this historic institution through this monumental and exciting new strategic change for the College. 

“Our next president will need to be an exemplary, student-centered leader and strategic thinker who understands the mission and challenges small private liberal arts institutions are faced with today,” says Toby W. Goodlett, Chair of the Columbia College Board of Trustees. He went on to say, “We are very excited about the future of Columbia College and we’re confident our Search Committee and Funk and Associates will help us find the perfect leader for this historic institution.” 

The College feels the best candidate will combine outstanding interpersonal skills with proven administrative competencies, as well as impeccable integrity and a dedication to preparing students for productive lives. 

For more information visit: https://www.columbiasc.edu/about/presidential-search 

Media Contact
Erika Dawkins | edawkins@columbiasc.edu | 803-786-3649

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About Columbia College 

Columbia College was founded in 1854 as Columbia Female College by the Methodist Conference of South Carolina. Columbia College continues to serve as an institution for higher education with approximately 1,200 male and female students in both undergraduate and graduate courses. 

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