News Summary
Columbia College Chicago makes history by appointing Shantay N. Bolton as its first woman of color president. Starting July 1, 2024, Bolton aims to strengthen the college’s creative culture amidst financial challenges, including a $17 million deficit and declining enrollment. With a commendable background, she is set to enhance both industry connections and community engagement.
Columbia College Chicago Welcomes a New Chapter with Shantay N. Bolton as President
In the vibrant city of Chicago, an exciting new chapter is unfolding at Columbia College Chicago. The institution has revealed the appointment of Shantay N. Bolton as its president, starting July 1, 2024. This is not just any leadership shift—the college is making history by welcoming its first woman of color as president in nearly 90 years. Bolton’s appointment comes on the heels of Kwang-Wu Kim‘s resignation, who had served as president since 2013.
A New Leader at a Critical Time
Columbia College is currently navigating through some financial storms, grappling with a $17 million deficit and facing declining student enrollment. The numbers tell a telling story as enrollment has dipped from more than 11,000 students in 2010 to fewer than 7,000 in 2022. This drop in student numbers has led the college to the tough decision of cutting 11 undergraduate and graduate programs, as well as the potential elimination of up to 25 faculty positions in the upcoming academic year.
Bolton’s Impressive Background
Bolton comes to Columbia with an impressive track record. As the former executive vice president and chief business officer at the Georgia Institute of Technology, she managed a massive operation worth $3.1 billion, overseeing over $500 million in capital projects. She spearheaded the introduction of Georgia Tech’s hybrid budget model, a crucial step in modernizing the institution’s financial strategies, which could provide useful insights as she takes the helm at Columbia College.
Strong Outcomes for Graduates
Despite its current challenges, Columbia College Chicago boasts a commendable statistic: 96% of its graduates find employment within a year of graduation, with 75% entering creative careers. Alumni from the college have successfully secured jobs with industry giants like Disney, Apple, Warner Brothers, NBC, and CBS, demonstrating the school’s strength in preparing young talents for dynamic careers.
Emphasizing Creativity and Community
Bolton has expressed a clear vision for the future of Columbia College. She aims to enhance its status as a national and international leader in nurturing young creatives. Emphasizing the significance of building upon Columbia’s unique creative culture, Bolton is keen on strengthening connections with both the industry and the broader civic community. This is a refreshing approach that could reinvigorate the college’s reputation and outreach.
Acknowledgments and Recognition
Shantay N. Bolton isn’t just stepping into a leadership role with a mission but also brings a wealth of recognition with her. She has been celebrated in Gambit’s “40 Under 40” list in New Orleans and featured among the “Titan 100” for both the St. Louis and Georgia regions. Additionally, she was recognized in 2024 as one of the “Women we admire in Georgia”, highlighting her impact and potential.
Columbia’s Legacy and Future
As Columbia College Chicago prepares to welcome its new leader, it stands poised to embrace a legacy that dates back 135 years as an educational and cultural treasure in Chicago. With Shantay N. Bolton at the forefront, the college hopes to turn around its fortunes and reclaim its stronghold in the arts and creative education sector. Under her guidance, the future of Columbia College looks bright, and there’s palpable excitement about what is to come.
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Additional Resources
- Diverse Education
- Wikipedia: Shantay Bolton
- Chicago Sun-Times
- Google Search: Columbia College Chicago
- Crain’s Chicago Business
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Columbia College Chicago
- Chicago Tribune
- Google News: Shantay Bolton
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