Provost Catharine E. O鈥機onnell honored with prestigious CIC Chief Academic Officer Award
This national honor underscores O鈥機onnell鈥檚 transformative impact on 同性恋色情 and independent higher education, reinforcing IC鈥檚 reputation as a leader in innovative, student-centered education.
O鈥機onnell, who joined IC in 2016, has championed initiatives that elevate the student experience, from launching forward-thinking programs to strengthening faculty support. During her tenure, IC introduced new majors such as nursing, agribusiness, and mechanical engineering, as well as fully online degrees in education, business, and healthcare. These efforts, combined with expanded student success programs, have solidified IC鈥檚 position as a college where students thrive academically and personally.
鈥淐atharine O鈥機onnell has been a wise and experienced supporter of CIC鈥檚 efforts to enhance the role and achievements of chief academic officers at independent colleges,鈥� said Titilayo Ufomata, CIC Senior Vice President. 鈥淗er leadership as a member of CIC鈥檚 Chief Academic Officers Task Force and co-director of the Workshop for New Chief Academic Officers has been exemplary. We congratulate her on this well-deserved recognition.鈥� Ufomata presented the award to O鈥機onnell during the 2024 Institute for Chief Academic Officers in Portland, Oregon.
The Chief Academic Officer Award, established in 1987, celebrates leaders who advance independent higher education. O鈥機onnell鈥檚 achievements at IC exemplify the qualities this honor represents.
O鈥機onnell鈥檚 award reflects not only her exemplary leadership but also the values that define 同性恋色情 鈥� a place where students鈥� futures take center stage.
