Richard Bland College - Interim President

Academic Career & Executive Search•Petersburg, VA

28d

About The Position

Academic Career & Executive Search is pleased to assist Richard Bland College in its search for an Interim President. For full consideration, please apply by November 12, 2025. Richard Bland College (RBC), Virginia’s only selective, public, residential two-year college, seeks a seasoned and visionary leader to serve as Interim President during a pivotal period of transition. This appointment follows the distinguished tenure of Dr. Debbie L. Sydow who has led the institution since 2012 through transformational change and a renewed strategic direction, leading the campaign for independent board governance, expanding guaranteed transfer pathways with more than 35 four-year institutions, and bolstering student success through its nationally recognized Guided Pathways for Success (GPS) program. Reporting directly to the Board of Visitors, the Interim President will serve as chief executive officer, responsible for maintaining institutional momentum and financial stability; engaging key local and state legislators; stewarding strategic priorities; and preparing the College for a successful transition to permanent leadership. The ideal candidate brings deep experience in higher education leadership, proven ability to productively engage with state government stakeholders, a commitment to student success, and the ability to lead with integrity, empathy, and decisiveness. Today, RBC is experiencing strong momentum, with year-over-year enrollment growth, including significant gains in part-time students. The College has secured more than $5 million in grants in FY2025 to advance priority initiatives, including a transformative $3.9 million Impact Grant from SCHEV, aimed at increasing paid internships and work-based learning opportunities for RBC students. The College has also launched innovative workforce partnerships such as the RBC Dealer Institute with Live! Casino & Hotel Virginia, expanding its role in regional economic development. With a thriving residential community and a bold Strategic Plan focused on academic excellence, student experience, and operational sustainability, RBC is well-positioned for the next phase. This is a 12-month appointment which includes Presidential housing, a benefits package, and the opportunity to apply for the permanent role. ( RBC Benefits )

Requirements

Terminal degree (e.g. Ed.D., Ph.D., J.D.)
Proven executive leadership experience in higher education, preferably at the presidential or senior cabinet level.
Demonstrated success in strategic planning, financial management, and institutional advancement.
Deep understanding of the mission and challenges of associate-degree-granting institutions.
Demonstrated experience engaging with state legislatures or other governmental bodies on matters affecting higher education, including budget advocacy, policy influence, or regulatory compliance.
Familiarity with the political and funding landscape of public higher education, especially within a state system.
Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with a commitment to shared governance.

Nice To Haves

Knowledge of Virginia higher education governance and regulatory environment.
Knowledge of higher education trends and strategies for remaining competitive.
Commitment to innovation in higher education, particularly with a focus on partnerships and collaboration to drive student success and community development.
Ability to assess institutional strengths and challenges and provide strategic recommendations to the Board.

Responsibilities

Serve as the chief executive and administrative officer of the College and ensure alignment of operations with the College’s mission and strategic plan.
Implement Board policies and directives and ensure alignment with the College’s mission and strategic plan.
Lead the College through a presidential transition with transparency and stability.
Prepare and submit the annual budget, tuition and fee schedule, and six-year plan for Board approval.
Champion academic excellence and student-centered learning.
Support the continued implementation of Guided Pathways for Success (GPS).
Ensure compliance with accreditation standards and regulatory requirements.
Oversee fiscal operations, including budget planning, financial reporting, and resource allocation, ensuring transparency and sustainability.
Represent the College externally in government, community, and partnership relations and engagements.
Support fundraising efforts and serve as liaison to the Richard Bland College Foundation.
Foster a culture of inclusion, collaboration, and shared governance.
Provide mentorship and continuity to senior leadership and staff and prepare the institution for a successful presidential search and onboarding.