Kalamazoo, Mich. — After a decade of dedicated service, Kalamazoo College President Jorge G. Gonzalez has announced that he will retire at the conclusion of his contract in 2026. In a statement released by the college, Gonzalez expressed his deep gratitude for the opportunity to lead the institution, reflecting on the immense honor it has been to serve in the role.
“Serving as K’s president has been the greatest honor of my life,” Gonzalez shared. “After nearly a decade, it is a job I still look forward to every day, which makes this announcement so bittersweet for me. It has been a privilege to work alongside the exceptional faculty and staff, administration, and Board of Trustees to guide K’s strategic priorities and provide transformative opportunities for our students. I intend to finish my term with the same commitment and enthusiasm I brought to my first day at K.”
Gonzalez became the 18th president of Kalamazoo College in 2016. During his tenure, he has overseen numerous initiatives aimed at enriching both the curricular and co-curricular experiences for students, while also strengthening the college’s financial and enrollment sustainability. Notable campus projects under his leadership include the replacement of the natatorium, which stands as a testament to his focus on enhancing the physical campus alongside academic growth.
Board Chair Jody Clark ’80 lauded Gonzalez’s leadership, praising his unique combination of vision, optimism, and analytical skills. “The Board of Trustees has deeply appreciated President Gonzalez’s leadership. He leads with vision, optimism, wisdom, and trust,” Clark said in the release. “He approaches problem-solving with the analytic lens of an economist and the empathy of a humanitarian. He successfully brings the College’s mission to life for students, faculty, staff, and alumni. He is totally committed to the success of our students. While we would love to extend his tenure at K, his retirement is well-deserved.”
Gonzalez’s decision to retire marks the conclusion of an impactful period for Kalamazoo College, one in which the institution has experienced growth, both academically and in its physical infrastructure. His commitment to student success and the college’s long-term sustainability has left an indelible mark on the college community.
With Gonzalez’s retirement date set for June 30, 2026, the Board of Trustees has announced plans to launch a national search for his successor. To assist in this process, the college will partner with Storbeck Search, a leading executive search firm. A search committee composed of trustees, faculty, staff, students, and alumni will be led by Board Chair Jody Clark, ensuring that the next president of Kalamazoo College reflects the values and vision that have guided the institution under Gonzalez’s leadership.
As the college prepares for this transition, Gonzalez remains dedicated to completing his final years in office with the same passion and determination that has defined his tenure, ensuring a smooth and successful leadership handover in 2026.
