The Goldey-Beacom College (GBC) Board of Trustees announced Colleen Perry Keith, Ph.D., will become its 14thpresident.
Keith will be the first female leader in the institution’s 133-year-old history and will assume her role on July 1.
Dr. Keith has served as president at Pfeiffer University in North Carolina since 2015 and previously served as president of Spartanburg Methodist College from 2009 – 2015.
While Keith was at Pfeiffer, the university increased enrollment, created the Office of Digital Transformation and Technology, launched two graduate health science programs and moved the university from NCAA Division II to Division III athletics.
The university also saw a substantial debt reduction and received support from the U.S. Department of Agriculture for capital projects and debt refinancing.
“We are excited to welcome Dr. Keith to the greater College community,” said Mark Olazagasti, chairman of the Board of Trustees. “With more than 30 years’ experience in higher education, we believe she will be an extraordinary leader for the College. As we embark on a major campus expansion by 2020 with a new residence hall, this is perfect timing.”
Keith holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Political Science from State University of New York, University Center at Binghamton; Master of Education Degree, Education Counseling from University of Pittsburgh; and a Doctorate of Philosophy in Higher Education Administration and Student Affairs from The Ohio State University.
Keith will succeed retiring College President Gary L. Wirt. During a 45-year career at Goldey-Beacom College, Dr. Wirt has served as a dean, vice president, and president.
Chicago-based search firm Witt/Kieffer conducted a nationwide search resulting in over 700 applicants.
Founded in 1886, the college offers graduate and undergraduate degrees with majors in psychology, economics, criminal justice, English, and all areas of business.
The college is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education and the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs.
Goldey-Beacom has 2,000 students and boasts a 90 percent-plus placement rate for graduates.
