Grand Rapids Community College Holds Historic Investiture for New President

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich., Sept. 8, 2026 /CourierPR/ -- Grand Rapids Community College (GRCC) celebrated the historic investiture of Dr. Kathryn A. Rogalski as its 12th president on September 18, marking a significant milestone in the institution’s 110-year history. As the first permanent female president, Rogalski’s inauguration symbolizes a new era for GRCC, one grounded in inclusivity and student-centered leadership.

The investiture ceremony, held at Fountain Street Church, brought together a diverse array of stakeholders, including students, employees, community leaders, and higher education partners. The event aimed to formally recognize Rogalski’s leadership and underscore the future direction of the college.

GRCC Board of Trustees Chair Salvador Lopez expressed enthusiasm about Rogalski’s appointment, stating, “Dr. Rogalski has brought an energy and sense of purpose to GRCC that is grounded in listening, collaboration, and a deep commitment to our students.” Lopez emphasized that the investiture ceremony was not only a celebration of this historic moment but also an opportunity to build a shared vision for the future.

A featured speaker at the event was Dr. DeRionne Pollard, president and CEO of the American Association of Community Colleges (AACC), a national organization representing over 1,000 community colleges and their students. Pollard’s presence highlighted the significance of Rogalski’s role in the broader context of community college leadership.

Guillermo Cisneros, president and CEO of the West Michigan Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, emceed the ceremony, ensuring a smooth flow of the event. The investiture ceremony also featured academic traditions, with a procession of faculty and representatives from colleges and universities wearing traditional regalia. Rogalski received the GRCC presidential medallion, symbolizing the scholarship, responsibility, and authority of the office.

Rogalski, a first-generation college student from Chicago, has brought a unique perspective to her role. After initially leaving college after two years, she returned as a new mother and earned her bachelor’s degree, ultimately continuing to graduate school. Her journey has profoundly influenced her belief in the transformative power of education and the role community colleges play in helping students envision their futures.

Since assuming the presidency in 2026, Rogalski has emphasized listening and learning from students, employees, and community partners while building on GRCC’s longstanding strengths. Her leadership has focused on expanding access and opportunity, supporting students from enrollment through completion, strengthening workforce and economic development partnerships, and fostering a college community where students and employees feel they belong.

The investiture ceremony also reflected the importance of partnerships that are central to GRCC’s work in West Michigan. Maggie Lancaster, CEO of the Grand Rapids Children’s Museum, and Steve Downing, president and CEO of Gentex Corporation, offered remarks representing community and employer partners. GRCC Provost and executive vice president of Academic and Student Affairs Dr. Sheila Jones and Mike Light, professor of History and president of the GRCC Faculty Association, also participated in the program. Adeline Butts, GRCC Student Government President, provided the student welcome.

The GRCC Foundation presented a donation in Rogalski’s honor, extending the celebration of her presidency into future support for GRCC students. The ceremony included academic traditions, with Rogalski receiving the GRCC presidential medallion and the mace, a symbol of the institution’s commitment to learning, community, and service.

Rogalski’s journey from a first-generation student to the first permanent female president of GRCC underscores the institution’s commitment to inclusivity and student success. As GRCC continues its mission of providing accessible, affordable education, Rogalski’s leadership is expected to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the college and its impact on the West Michigan community.