Shelley Barkley has been named the ninth president of Spoon River College in Canton, Illinois. The community college enrolls more than 1,200 students, according to the most recent data from the U.S. Department of Education, and women represent two-thirds of the student body. Upon assuming her new role on August 31, Dr. Barkley will become the community college’s first woman president.
Dr. Barkley comes to her new role from John Wood Community College in Quincy, Illinois, where she serves as vice president of academic and student affairs. Previously, she served in a variety of roles at Sauk Valley Community College in Dixon, Illinois, including dean of general education and assistant dean of career and technical education. Dr. Barkley also has teaching experience in psychology and sociology.
Kevin Meade, chair of the Spoon River College board of trustees, stated that “Dr. Barkley distinguished herself throughout the search process through her exceptional commitment to student success, her innovative leadership, and her deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing rural community colleges. Her experience leading academic and student affairs, advancing workforce partnerships, and improving student outcomes aligns closely with Spoon River College’s mission and vision for the future.”
Dr. Barkley received her bachelor’s degree and her master’s degree in family and individual development from Northern Illinois University and her doctorate in community college leadership from Ferris State University in Big Rapids, Michigan.