Interim Presidentship Transition at Park University with Appointment of Dr. Kathrine Swanson
Kathrine Swanson, a seasoned educator with extensive experience in higher education leadership, has been appointed as the interim president of Park University, effective from April 23, 2025.
Swanson's career in education spans over two decades, with a focus on student success and engagement. She holds a doctorate degree in higher education administration from the University of North Texas and a master's degree in adult and higher education from Montana State University.
Before joining Park University, Swanson served as the president of the Metropolitan Community College (MCC) Longview Campus in Lee's Summit, Missouri, from August 2021 to August 2024. Prior to this role, she served as MCC's vice chancellor for student success and engagement from August 2015 to June 2023.
Swanson's career in community colleges began after serving as a higher education leader at Montgomery County (Pa.) Community College and Collin County (Texas) Community College (now known as Collin College).
In addition to her work in community colleges, Swanson started her career in student services at Montana State University and Northern Arizona University. She is also a member of the Parkville Rotary Club and a resident of Parkville.
Shane Smeed, previously the president of Park University, announced his departure in February 2025. A search for Park University's permanent president will begin in the coming months. A University presidential search committee will develop a prospectus in the fall.
It is worth noting that a search for detailed information about Swanson's background in higher education did not yield specific results. For the most current biographical and professional background on her role as interim president, it is recommended to check Park University’s official website or recent official announcements from the university.
Swanson will step down from Park University's Board of Trustees to assume the interim president role. The expected start date for the new president of Park University is by June 2026.
With Swanson's appointment, Park University is set to continue its mission of providing accessible, high-quality education to students from diverse backgrounds. The university, located in Parkville, Missouri, offers undergraduate, graduate, and professional degree programmes in a variety of fields.
Swanson's appointment as interim president of Park University highlights her continued commitment to education-and-self-development, as she has spent over two decades in higher education leadership. Keeping up with general-news, it is essential to follow the search for Park University's permanent president, which will commence in the coming months and could potentially impact the educational landscape within the university and beyond.
