Dottie King, Ph.D., 16th president of Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College
By Dee Reed
Executive Director of College Relations
Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College (SMWC) board of trustees voted at its May meeting to renew the contract of President Dottie King, Ph.D. keeping her at the helm for another three years. The unanimous board action signaled a strong and clear endorsement for King, who has been instrumental in leading and advancing the mission of the College.
The reappointment, announced by board co-chairman Susan Hamilton ’66, ’90 at its quarterly meeting, extends King’s contract to 2017.
“Dr. King has clearly demonstrated effective leadership, challenged us in new ways and built upon the remarkable strengths of this institution,” said Hamilton. “We anticipate a great future with her strong vision for the College and sincere commitment to its success.”
During her tenure, the College advanced its ranking to the top five percent of Best Regional Colleges in the Midwest by U.S. News & World Report. Under King’s leadership, recent academic expansion highlights include restructuring the undergraduate core curriculum, developing nursing and online RN to BSN programs, adding new majors including criminology, environmental science, healthcare administration and renovating science laboratories.
President King led SMWC through an $11 million capital campaign to build a sports and recreation center. The facility, opening the fall of 2014, will enhance the college experience for students and provide multiple opportunities to collaborate with the local community through health and wellness initiatives and other programs.
In addition, King spearheaded the launch of new brand initiative focused on advancing the image and reputation of the College. The initiative, Aspire Higher, is a clear and distinctive message that’s congruent with the College’s mission and values and reflective of its vision.
Building on a tradition of boldness and excellence, King’s administration has embarked on a strategic planning process to address educational challenges and provide a holistic learning experience for its students.
“I’m honored by the trust that the Board of Trustees continues to place in me to lead this extraordinary institution into the future,” said King. “I am grateful for the opportunity to work with our remarkable administration, faculty, staff and students whose passion and dedication inspire me.”