Stuebner Inaugurated as 26th President

Simpson College celebrated the inauguration of Susan D. Stuebner, Ed.D., as its 26th president this afternoon, Friday, Oct. 16, in Smith Chapel. Surrounded by family, friends, business partners, community members, Simpson trustees, students, faculty, staff and alumni, President Stuebner pledged her commitment to faithfully serving the mission of Simpson College and its students.

“Thank you to those of you who offered such incredible words of welcome. I am humbled to have the honor and responsibility to represent each of you and your constituencies as president of Simpson College,” Stuebner said. “It is with tremendous pride, humility, excitement, and optimism that I officially join the Simpson community as your 26th president.”

Speakers included Bishop Kennetha Bigham-Tsai from the United Methodist Church, Indianola Mayor Steve Richardson and Simpson Alum of the Class of ‘77, and members of the staff, faculty, and students of Simpson.

Stuebner’s speech highlighted Simpson’s competitive distinction as “the perfect place to become your best,” noting Simpson’s idyllic location and transformative impact on preparing students for exceptional lives of meaning and purpose.

“Students arrive with their talents and hopes for their future. Aided by invested faculty mentors and supportive staff, and with access to a variety of leadership opportunities, they grow into their best selves. Our students hone their strengths and discover potential beyond their imagination,” she said.

Despite the challenges and changes higher education is facing, Stuebner said that Simpson is committed to providing academic excellence, accessibility and positive outcomes.

“Simpson College commits to an educational process – in and out of the classroom – that promotes and cultivates these values and enables every student to be their best selves,” she said.

Stuebner was awarded the presidential medallion by Senior Vice President of Academic Affairs and Academic Dean CoryAnne Harrigan, officially recognizing her as the 26th president of Simpson College.

“Simpson College. Our best is yet to come,” Stuebner finished.