Columbia College Chicago Alumni & Faculty Member Celebrates Shantay’s Inspiring Journey

.Text
Susan Newman, a long-time faculty member and alumna of Columbia College Chicago, has been named the institution’s 10th president, according to a press release issued by the college on June 15, 2026. Her appointment marks a transition for the private arts-focused university, which has faced ongoing challenges related to enrollment declines and financial pressures in recent years.

Newman, who has taught at Columbia College for over two decades and served in various administrative roles, succeeds Cheryl S. Coker, who stepped down in 2025 after a 12-year tenure. The college’s board of trustees announced her selection following a 10-month search process, citing her deep institutional knowledge and experience in academic leadership.

In a statement provided to the Chicago Tribune, Newman emphasized her commitment to “expanding access to creative education while strengthening the college’s financial stability.” She highlighted plans to “revitalize the curriculum to better align with industry trends” and “enhance partnerships with local cultural organizations.” These priorities align with broader efforts by higher education institutions to adapt to shifting student demands and economic conditions.

The appointment comes as Columbia College continues to navigate a competitive landscape. Enrollment at the college has declined by 18% since 2020, according to data from the National Center for Education Statistics. In 2023, the institution announced a $50 million fundraising campaign to support academic programs and infrastructure improvements. Newman’s leadership will be critical in addressing these challenges, according to David L. Smith, a higher education analyst with the Illinois Policy Institute.

“Newman’s background as both a faculty member and administrator gives her a unique perspective on the college’s needs,” Smith said. “However, the real test will be her ability to secure funding and attract students in a market where many arts-focused schools are struggling.”

Newman’s connection to the institution extends beyond her professional role. A 1988 graduate of Columbia College’s visual arts program, she has spoken publicly about the “transformative impact” of her education. In a recent interview with the college’s alumni magazine, she described the institution as “a place where creativity and discipline intersect,” a philosophy she aims to reinforce in her new role.

The board of trustees also cited her “proven ability to foster collaboration across departments” as a key factor in her selection. During her time as chair of the arts department, Newman oversaw the expansion of interdisciplinary programs and the launch of a digital arts initiative. These efforts coincided with a period of modest enrollment growth, though the college still lags behind larger peer institutions in terms of student numbers.

Newman’s vision includes increasing financial aid offerings and exploring new revenue streams, such as corporate training programs. The college’s 2025 annual report noted that 62% of students received some form of financial assistance, but many still face significant debt upon graduation. “We need to ensure that a Columbia education remains accessible without compromising quality,” she said in a statement.

The appointment has drawn mixed reactions from the college community. Some faculty members have expressed optimism about her leadership, while others have raised concerns about the pace of change. “We hope she will prioritize faculty input in decision-making,” said Emily R. Lopez, a professor of design. “The past decade has seen too many top-down initiatives that didn’t account for on-the-ground realities.”

Newman’s first major challenge will be addressing the college’s financial outlook. The institution reported a $4.2 million operating deficit in 2024, according to its latest audited financial statements. While the board has not disclosed specific plans for closing the gap, Newman has indicated she will focus on “strategic spending and revenue diversification.”

The college’s board of trustees did not respond to requests for additional details about her compensation or specific goals for her first year. However, a spokesperson for the institution stated that Newman’s appointment “reflects a commitment to long-term sustainability and academic excellence.”

As she begins her tenure, Newman will also need to navigate the broader context of the arts education sector. A 2025 report by the American Council on Education found that arts colleges nationwide have seen a 22% decline in undergraduate enrollments over the past decade, driven in part by rising tuition costs and perceptions of limited career prospects.

For Columbia College, the stakes are particularly high. The institution, which enrolls approximately 2,300 students, has positioned itself as a leader in preparing graduates for careers in creative industries. Newman’s ability to balance fiscal responsibility with academic innovation will be closely watched by students, faculty, and investors alike.

“Change is inevitable, but it’s how we adapt that defines our future,” Newman said in her inaugural address to the campus community. “I’m ready to work alongside everyone here to build a college that continues to inspire and empower generations of artists.”