President

The Appalachian College Association (ACA)—a mission-driven consortium of 33 private liberal arts institutions—invites nominations and applications for its next President. With the planned retirement of the current President in December 2026, the ACA seeks a visionary executive to guide its next chapter of growth, impact, and collaboration. This is a rare opportunity to lead a highly respected consortium dedicated to expanding educational opportunity and strengthening communities across Appalachia. The ACA supports member institutions by advancing collaborative programs that enhance student experiences, maximize institutional resources, and promote faculty and student success. With a strong financial foundation and an endowment of approximately $42 million, the ACA is well-positioned to expand its influence and deepen its impact across the region.

The ACA is a non-profit consortium of 33 private, four-year liberal arts institutions located throughout the Appalachian region. Governed by a Board comprised of member institution presidents, the ACA serves as a catalyst for:

• Collaborative academic and student success programs
• Faculty and leadership professional development initiatives
• Library services, as well as other shared services and cost efficiencies
• Regional economic and educational advancement

Through innovative programming and partnerships, the ACA plays a vital role in strengthening higher education access and outcomes across a diverse and historically underserved region.

The President serves as the chief executive and strategic leader of the ACA, working closely with the Board of Directors and member institutions to advance the organization’s mission.

Key priorities include:

• Strategic Leadership: Shape the future direction and growth of the ACA in partnership with the Board.
• External Engagement & Fundraising: Build relationships with foundations, corporations, and partners to expand resources and impact.
• Member Success: Strengthen engagement with presidents and institutions to deliver high-value programs and services.
• Organizational Leadership: Oversee operations, staff, financial stewardship, and program effectiveness.
• Advocacy & Visibility: Serve as a leading voice for higher education and regional advancement in Appalachia.

The President leads a small but impactful team and serves as the primary ambassador for the organization across higher education and the broader community.

The ACA seeks a dynamic, collaborative, and mission-oriented leader who brings:

• Demonstrated leadership experience, ideally in higher education or a related sector
• Strategic and entrepreneurial mindset with the ability to drive innovation and growth
• Fundraising and partnership-building expertise
• Exceptional communication and relationship skills with diverse stakeholders
• Commitment to mission-driven work, particularly in rural or underserved regions

Experience in, or connection to, the Appalachian region is valued, as is an understanding of the opportunities and challenges shaping higher education today.

Why the ACA?

• Lead a high-impact organization serving a complex and vital region
• Collaborate with engaged college presidents and academic leaders
• Build on a strong platform of programs, partnerships, and financial stability
• Play a critical role in advancing educational access, workforce development, and economic mobility across Appalachia

Compensation will be competitive and commensurate with experience, including a comprehensive benefits package.

To make a nomination, provide a referral, or for additional information, please use the contact information below. While applications and nominations will be accepted until a successful candidate has been appointed, interested individuals are encouraged to submit their materials as soon as possible for full consideration. The preferred start date will be late fall 2026.

To apply or nominate a candidate, please submit a resume or CV and cover letter to:
ACAPresident@buffkinbaker.com 

For additional information, contact:

Ken Carrick, Partner – 980-296-5401

Janny DeLoache, Associate Partner – 704-377-7828

The ACA encourages applications from candidates without regard to ethnicity, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, or gender identity.