Waterville, Maine, MARCH 2024— Thomas College President Laurie G. Lachance announced to the college community recently her intention to retire by June 2025. Laurie has served as president since 2012, leading the college through a period of significant growth and innovation.
“It has been my greatest honor and privilege to serve as Thomas College’s president,” said Lachance. “With the vision and full support of the Board, and the hard work and can-do spirit of our entire college community, Thomas has experienced over a decade of bold transformation. We’ve consistently led the industry in ‘breaking the mold’ by creating strong early college programming, attacking affordability head-on by offering all bachelors degrees in a three-year format and a masters in one year, and proudly serving as an engine of upward social and economic mobility. We have had great growth without ever abandoning our humble roots and kind culture.”
During her tenure, President Lachance kept pace with the rapidly evolving landscape of higher education. Under her leadership, the college expanded and modernized its academic offerings, including the launch of new undergraduate and graduate programs, accelerated three-year undergraduate degrees, 100% online degree programs, and leading-edge professional and career development programming. President Lachance also spearheaded campaigns that raised nearly $50MM to fund the construction of several new facilities, including the Sukeforth Family Sports Center, which opened in 2022.
“President Lachance has been a visionary leader for Thomas College,” said chair of the Thomas College Board of Trustees Conrad Ayotte. “Under her leadership, the College has experienced tremendous growth and progress. In the face of great odds, Thomas College actually saw overall enrollment growth of 3.3 percent in the fall of 2023 and broke all records for average GPA of the incoming class as well as retention rates. We are grateful for her dedication and service to the mission of Thomas College and the students we serve.”
The Board of Trustees has established a search committee to identify Lachance’s successor and plans to appoint a new president by June 2025.
“Thomas College is such a special place, and we make such a difference in the lives of our students. I gave my notice very early so that the College would have ample time to find the absolute best person for this role,” said Lachance. “I am committed to work closely with the Board and the new president to ensure a smooth transition.”
View the job listing here.
About Laurie G. Lachance
Laurie Lachance became Thomas College’s 5th President and the first female and alumna to lead the College in its 130-year history in 2012. From 2004-2012, Laurie served as President and CEO of the Maine Development Foundation. Prior to MDF, Laurie served three governors as the Maine State Economist, and before joining state government, she served as the Corporate Economist at Central Maine Power Company.
About Thomas College
U.S. News and World Report consistently ranks Thomas College as a top college in Maine for social mobility. Our clear career focus and one-of-a-kind Guaranteed Job Program™ makes it possible to advance faster in the arts and sciences, business, and education. Earn an undergraduate degree in three years and then choose from a variety of in-person or online graduate degree programs that can be completed in one-year or two. Located in Waterville, Maine, Thomas College is your pathway to a promising future, guaranteed. For more information, visit edf.aprender-a-bailar.com or contact MacKenzie Riley Young at [email protected] or 207-859-1313. Find us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn, and TikTok.