UF President Katherine Fell to Retire in 2026
University of Findlay President Katherine Fell, Ph.D., has announced her plans to retire at the close of the 2025-26 academic year, concluding 16 years of transformative leadership for UF.
“President Fell has led with vision, faith, and a deep commitment to the transformative power of higher education,” said Chris Ostrander, president of the University’s Board of Trustees. “We are profoundly grateful for her service and her impact on many thousands of students. She will leave Findlay poised for continued growth and a dynamic future.”
President Fell has guided the University through a time of expansion and strategic decision-making to achieve a position of strength in the higher education community, he noted.
Her tenure has been marked by a student-centered focus on academic excellence, experiential learning opportunities, and enhanced campus facilities – all advancing the University’s regional and national reputation.
UF’s standards for excellence were recently recognized for the 20th consecutive year with top rankings in U.S. News & World Report’s annual survey of “America’s Best Colleges.”
Under President Fell’s leadership, Findlay has added many new academic programs, especially at the master’s and doctoral levels, while expanding the number of partnerships with local businesses and community organizations, and amplifying its role as a regional catalyst for economic and social vitality, Ostrander explained.
She also has been a driving force behind “Together We Will,” the largest comprehensive campaign in UF history. Gifts from generous donors have nearly reached the $75 million goal and have constructed the Joseph and Judith Conda STEAM Education Center and the Dick Strahm Champions Field. A multi-million-dollar lead gift created the Watterson Center for Ethical Leadership, and $15.5 million has been given for student scholarships.
“It has been an immense honor for me to serve as the University of Findlay’s president and work alongside talented colleagues to serve our students,” President Fell said. “I am deeply grateful to our many alumni, friends, parents, and community members who believe in UF’s mission to prepare students for meaningful lives and productive careers.”
President Fell came to Findlay in 2010 after serving at Centenary College, Shreveport, La., for 24 years first as an associate professor of English and eventually as the college’s vice president of advancement.
In 2024, the Board of Trustees extended her contract for three years, through June 2026, and left open the option for her to continue beyond 2026 if she chose to do so. The Board of Trustees will launch a national search for the next president. President Fell will serve in her role through the upcoming academic year, continuing to advance key institutional priorities and working closely with the board to ensure a seamless transition.
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