Updates following the Board of Trustees Meeting-October 2025

Dear Members of the Trinity College Community, 

During Fall Weekend two weeks ago, I had the profound honor of being installed as the 23rd president of Trinity College—a moment that was as joyful as it was meaningful. In my Inaugural Address, I spoke about why I fell in love with Trinity. I believe deeply that the liberal arts are not fragile; they are forever. And Trinity will lead in proving it. I invite you to view the Inauguration news story and video highlights.

Fall Weekend overflowed with a spirit that makes Trinity unique: alumni, students, faculty, staff, and families coming together in a communal celebration unlike those on other campuses. In case you were unable to join us, here is a Fall Weekend recap video to provide you with a view of the passion and pride that are unmistakably Trinity. Thank you to all members of our community who worked tirelessly to prepare for and to execute a remarkable Fall Weekend and Inauguration.

The confirmation of our commitment to the liberal arts and the excitement generated from Fall Weekend guided our work as the Board of Trustees convened last week for its fall meeting. We welcomed new trustees Claire Capeci ’85, TCAA Immediate Past President Amy McGill Dilatush ’94, and Teddy Schiff ’01. Together, we reflected on the promise of our shared future and took decisive steps to strengthen the College’s foundation in areas vital to our long-term success.

Budget Approval and Financial Stewardship

Due to careful planning and resource prioritization led by the Executive Leadership Team and those responsible for curbing expenses, the College managed to balance and close the FY25 budget positively. On Friday, the board approved Trinity’s budget for the current fiscal year (FY26)—an essential milestone that ensures stability and focus as we continue our work through the fall and spring semesters. You may recall that the board delayed its standard budget-approval schedule from the spring to the fall to ensure that the budget was based on the most accurate enrollment data possible, which was available after the arrival of our new students. As with many colleges, we face financial headwinds that require vigilance and creativity. The board’s thoughtful deliberation reaffirmed our commitment to disciplined management, strategic investment, and transparency.

Our approved budget reflects a balance between prudent stewardship and targeted investments in areas that promote growth, including enrollment, marketing, our student experience, and advancement. It also underscores a shared expectation that every dollar spent should directly advance our mission and contribute to long-term sustainability.

Investing in Our Campus and Residential Experience

Recognizing the critical need to invest in our facilities, the board approved a plan to utilize $10 million in new bond financing to support campus improvements. This investment will support updates to first-year residence halls, academic spaces, and a host of necessary infrastructure improvements that will promote stronger campus functionality and appeal. This work will enhance the quality of daily life for students and will ensure that our physical environment consistently reflects the caliber of our academic and community ambitions.

Planning for Revenue Growth

Vice President for Advancement Ben Anderson shared early observations about strategically fostering more alumni engagement and pride. Additionally, he spoke about the opportunities ahead to build a stronger culture of philanthropy and stewardship.

A major focus of the meeting was a new multiyear strategic enrollment plan—a blueprint to expand Trinity’s applicant pool and to strengthen student success. The plan, led by Dean of Admissions and Financial Aid Matt Hyde, is data informed, ambitious, and rooted in collaboration across campus. It outlines a path to attract more students who are drawn to Trinity’s academic excellence and engaged learning environment. This work will involve deeper partnerships with schools and community organizations, expanded campus visitation programs, and targeted outreach to new regions and populations. To continue our shared commitment to growing enrollment while maintaining quality, diversity, and access, it will take a village. I invite everyone in our community to embrace their part as ambassadors, proudly speaking about Trinity when asked to participate in programming or marketing strategies that promote the strengths of our community.

Celebrating Faculty Scholarship and Partnership

One of the most inspiring parts of the weekend was the trustees’ engagement with our faculty. During our Friday evening gathering in the Scully Center, we celebrated the exceptional scholarship and creativity that define Trinity faculty. From national awards and fellowships to publications and performances, our faculty’s achievements continue to elevate Trinity’s academic reputation and to transform our students’ experiences.

Trustees and faculty members had opportunities to connect and discuss the teaching and research that make Trinity distinctive. These moments remind us that the College’s greatest strength lies in the people who bring our mission to life every day.

Hearing Directly from Students

Trustees also met with students over lunch on Friday to hear firsthand about their experiences, ambitions, and ideas for Trinity’s future. The students brought invaluable perspectives about the impact of internships and summer research projects and the many opportunities to which they aspire.

Whether discussing academic pathways, student life, or plans for the future, our students demonstrated the confidence, curiosity, and commitment that embody the best of Trinity and connected the board’s understanding of how institutional decisions affect daily life and learning on campus.

Looking Ahead

As we move forward, I am energized by the clarity and alignment that emerged from the board meeting. While many challenges confront higher education—several of which were very thoughtfully discussed during this meeting—the board remains dedicated to our mission, our values, and partnering with faculty, staff, and students to chart a course for growth, investment, and academic excellence.

Our shared work is to translate this momentum into measurable progress, strengthening Trinity’s financial foundation, enhancing the student experience, and expanding the reach of our academic distinction. I am deeply grateful to every member of our community who contributes to this effort each day.

With appreciation,