Debbie Ricker, Ph.D., Appointed as Interim President Effective July 1

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

Ricker began as Hood 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 Hood 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 Hood College,” – Tonya Thomas Finton ’78, chair of the Board of Trustees.

"I am honored to have the confidence, trust and support of Hood 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 Hood College and our student experience." 

"During this leadership transition, my goal is to continue working with the Hood 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 Hood’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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