The Southwestern College Board of Trustees has announced the extension of President Elizabeth Frombgen’s contract through June of 2030.

“Dr. Frombgen demonstrates a boundless dedication to the success of our institution and our students. She inspires enthusiasm for the mission of the college and creates genuine connections wherever she goes,” said Scott Hecht, board chair.

Frombgen, the 20th president in the college's 140-year history, began working at SC in the summer of 2022 and was formally inaugurated in April of 2023.

“This has been a tumultuous period for higher education, Southwestern College notwithstanding, Dr. Frombgen has led with focus, care, and a spirit of tenacity that has made our college stronger in many ways; we are grateful for her continued leadership and commitment,” adds Hecht. 

Under President Frombgen's leadership the college completed a strategic planning process that prioritizes the work of the institution until 2029. One priority identified in the planning process was bringing back the college's nursing program; students will begin work in the nursing major this August. Additionally, the college is in the accreditation pathway to launch a master's in physician associate (PA) program, with an anticipated program opening planned for January of 2027. 

Since July 2022, SC has added four new undergraduate majors (including construction management and agribusiness in partnership with Cowley College), three Professional Studies programs, an Honors Program, and a women’s flag football team. President Frombgen has led the college forward while maintaining balanced budgets. Over the past three years, the college has benefitted from an increase in alumni and community participation and increasing philanthropic support. While work continues to sustainably grow main campus and online enrollment, the college continues to make good progress in improving the student retention and graduation rates. To that end, the college has launched a variety of initiatives focused on improving the student experience and strengthening academic outcomes. Under President Frombgen's direction, the institution has taken on strategic facility improvement projects across campus and construction of The Bruce DeHaven Football Complex has begun.

“I am proud of how far we've come at Southwestern and I'm constantly grateful for the opportunity to work alongside a team of dedicated trustees, faculty, and staff to serve our students and this community. This isn't an easy time to lead a small private college in a rural community, our progress will continue to be hard-earned, but the work is incredibly important,” said Frombgen in response to the contract extension. “I and my husband, Doug, are committed to this community in every way and I am eager to continue building strength at Southwestern College.”