In a unanimous decision, Marietta College’s Board of Trustees has chosen to keep Kathleen Poorman Dougherty’s steady hand at the helm — no longer as an interim leader, but as president and chief executive officer of the institution.

She’s been provost and dean of faculty since 2023, and interim president since the beginning of this year. Her forward thinking and instinct to meet challenges head-on has earned her the confidence of trustees and the campus at large.

“The entire Marietta College community is grateful for Dr. Dougherty’s exceptional operational leadership and strategic visibility,” board Chairman Jim Wilson said. “Her focus on the future of the college, her ability to deal with the challenges and opportunities facing the college, and her outreach to the campus community and the state’s higher-education community have been exceptional.”

Dougherty doesn’t just look ahead, then, she looks outward — understanding Marietta College’s role in its community and state, too. It will be important for her to continue seeing the college as part of a big picture, rather than isolated and stagnant.

To that end, it is encouraging to see Dougherty’s understanding of the importance of all those who keep the college running.

“They (faculty and staff) help to create an education that is truly grounded in human connection and a commitment to helping every student succeed. I’m excited to continue our work together to build a strong future for Marietta College and future generations of Pioneers. I’m grateful for the board’s partnership and their confidence in my ability to lead Marietta forward.”

Leading with momentum is no easy task, but Dougherty appears ready to take it on.

So, while we congratulate her on the appointment, we can’t wait to see what she — and Marietta College — will do next.