By Sarah Johnson

Copyright hoodline

Adrian’s Siena Heights University, approaching its final academic chapter, has appointed Dr. Cheri Betz as its last president to lead the institution through its concluding year. In a turn of events reflecting the poignant realities of higher education’s economic pressures, this alma mater to many will cease operations after the 2025-26 academic year. As reported by WTOL, Dr. Betz, with a longstanding 20-year relationship with the university and experience as its executive vice president, takes the reins from Dr. Douglas Palmer.

Recognized for her service within the university and her academic roots that include earning a master’s degree from the institution, Dr. Betz promises a dedication to a dignified closure. “I am here to serve,” Betz said. “The year ahead of us is a critical one in that we uphold our promise of an honorable closure. I will not waiver in my commitment to students, faculty, staff, and alumni to make our final chapter one that honors the legacy of the institution,” she told CBS News Detroit.

The Board of Trustees and the Adrian Dominican Sisters, who founded Siena Heights in 1919, have expressed confidence in Betz’s leadership. “Dr. Betz has a depth and breadth of experience and love of Siena to lead students, faculty and staff with joy, intelligence and sensitivity through a very challenging final year that could also be richly rewarding,” stated Elise D. García, OP, Prioress of the Adrian Dominican Sisters, per WTOL. The college, despite receiving ongoing support, could no longer continue beyond the next academic year, as determined by the university’s board.