Concord University President, Dr. Kendra Boggess, to retire in August 2025

ATHENS, WV ( WVNS ) — President of Concord University, Dr. Kendra Boggess, announced she will be retiring after the 2024-2025 academic year.

According to a press release, Dr. Boggess will be hanging it up after serving Mountain Lions of Concord College (and now) University for 41 years. She became CU’s first woman to serve as President of the university when she took over in 2014.

The press release from Concord University leadership touched on Dr. Boggess’ leadership through tough times during the COVID-19 pandemic and different budget cuts over the years.

Throughout her tenure, Dr. Boggess has been a visionary leader, guiding Concord University through the complexities of the COVID-19 pandemic, funding cuts, and other hurdles typical in higher education. Her unwavering commitment to the university’s motto, “Come to Learn, Go to Serve,” was particularly evident during the pandemic, where she, her administration, faculty and staff not only ensured the safety of the campus community while maintaining continuity in education but also donated critical personal protective masks during a national shortage.

Under Dr. Boggess’s leadership, Concord University, along with the CU Foundation achieved numerous milestones and improvements. Notable projects include the comprehensive renovation of the Twin Towers dormitory, enhancing student living conditions with modern amenities. Additionally, the addition of an on-campus student health center, upgrades to athletic facilities such as the track renovation and other infrastructure improvements have been pivotal in enhancing Concord’s ability to support its students and community.

In terms of academics, Dr. Boggess and her faculty administration expanded Concord’s offerings by introducing new programs in Nursing, Physician Assistant Studies, Substance Use Studies, Cybersecurity, Data Analytics, Masters of Business Administration, and various minors in programs developed to enhance graduate studies as well as student employability. Her advocacy also led to the creation of West Virginia’s first Varsity Esports Team and a major in Esports, underscoring her commitment to advancing innovative educational opportunities and meeting student interests.

Concord University Administration

When speaking of her retirement, Boggess spoke about the support she had through the years at The Campus Beautiful .

It is with a mixture of gratitude, pride, and a touch of sadness that I plan to leave The Campus Beautiful and embark on my future retirement plans. I have been consistently buoyed by an extraordinary community through every challenge. It has truly been the honor of my lifetime to represent and help build our community at Concord University.

Dr. Kendra Boggess | President, Concord University

No successor has been named as of yet. According to the Chair of the Search Committee, Dr. Brad Lane, the committee will search for someone who maintains and appreciates Concord University’s values and traditions, while also being innovative to spring Concord University into the future.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WVNS.