HAMDEN, Conn. — Quinnipiac University President Judy Olian announced on Friday that she will step down from her position following the 2024-2025 academic year, according to university spokesperson John Morgan.
Olian joined Quinnipiac in 2018 as its ninth president. During her tenure, the university experienced significant growth and innovation.
“This was a difficult and emotional decision for me – serving in this role over the past six-plus years has truly been the privilege of my life,” Olian said. “Timing for such decisions is never ideal – there is always more to do, plans that are not yet completed. However, Quinnipiac’s upward momentum is heartening, and I have every confidence in the institution’s continued success.”
Olian added that she will sprint to the finish line and continue upholding and progressing Quinnipiac’s strategic plan, “The University of the Future.”
“I plan on a full and busy year ahead, pushing our plans through to completion,” Olian said. “We have much to accomplish, and I am dedicated to ensuring Quinnipiac is in the strongest possible position as we transition to my successor.”
The university says Olian’s time there has been defined by numerous achievements, highlighted by her leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic. She also launched many market-facing innovative degree and certificate programs.
Olian left her mark on the campus by helping lead the construction of the university’s Recreation and Wellness Center and the development of South Quad. The quad features The Grove, a recently opened 415-bed residence hall; a new School of Business building; and the SITE, or Science, Innovation, Technology and Exploration building.
The SITE is a student-centered academic building created to further research and interdisciplinary learning, according to the university, which says the new academic buildings are set to open in May 2025.
“Under Olian, the university surpassed enrollment goals and has been recognized by Zippia for five years in a row as the No. 1 university for employment success 10 years out,” Morgan said.
Olian also emphasized the importance of civic engagement and strengthened the university’s partnerships with surrounding communities while actively supporting their well-being. Since 2018, Quinnipiac has established programs and projects that expanded inclusive excellence throughout the campus.
The university added that Olian created corporate partnerships such as an exclusive one with Hartford HealthCare to address long-term talent needs in the state and beyond. Quinnipiac also notes that the university’s many corporate partners have impacted faculty research and teaching opportunities, student learning and immersions and the variety of services delivered on campus.
“Judy Olian’s leadership has been transformative,” Quinnipiac’s Board of Trustees Chair Chuck Saia said. “Her vision and dedication have propelled Quinnipiac to new heights, and her impact will be felt for many years. She attracted outstanding leaders to the university who will continue the exciting momentum and established lasting connections with donors and alumni.”
Saia said that as the university begins its search for the next president, the board is confident that a leader will be found who can build on the strong foundation Olian laid.
The university highlighted Olian’s distinguished career in education. She is the current chair of the Division 1 Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference, is a member of the board of the Knight Commission on Collegiate Athletics and co-chairs AdvanceCT.
Before being employed at Quinnipiac, Olian held leadership positions at UCLA, Penn State and the University of Maryland. She also chaired AACSB, the leading accrediting organization for global business schools.
“Olian’s legacy at Quinnipiac will be defined by her unwavering commitment to academic excellence, innovation and inclusivity. The national search for Olian’s successor will be conducted over the coming months, led by the university’s Board of Trustees,” Morgan said.
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Dalton Zbierski is a digital content producer and writer at FOX61 News. He can be reached at dzbierski@FOX61.com.
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