Caroline Whitson to Leave Presidency of Columbia College

Caroline Whitson, the 17th president of Columbia College in Columbia, South Carolina, has announced that she will step down at the conclusion of this academic year. She has been president of the women’s college since 2001.

Founded in 1854, Columbia College is affiliated with the United Methodist Church. It enrolls about 1,250 women.

In announcing her retirement, President Whitson said, “I am well aware that the successes the college has enjoyed during my time here are a direct result of the work of a talented, committed faculty and staff and the support of an engaged board of trustees. I have been fortunate to have the opportunity to work with and learn from them.”

President Whitson holds bachelor’s, master’s, and Ph.D. degrees in English from the University of Arkansas.