President Kristine Dillon '73 has been a champion of Whittier College for decades. Now, the Poet community will, in turn, celebrate her with a presidential installation ceremony during Homecoming weekend.
The installation of Whittier College’s 16th President will take place from 5-6 p.m. Friday, Oct. 25, at the Ruth B. Shannon Center for the Performing Arts. The ceremony will include an academic processional, tributes to Whittier's mission, and remarks by the new President on the College's future.
“Sometimes a leader appears in a very difficult situation that brings all the right expertise and leadership skills to deal with the challenge,” said Whittier Board of Trustees Chair Ron Gastelum ’68. “Last year, we found ourselves in need of such a leader to work closely with the Board of Trustees and the faculty to restore confidence in Whittier College as one of the best small liberal arts colleges in the country. Dr. Kristine Dillon is that leader.”
Dillon’s first job after graduating from Whittier in 1973 was supporting the college's student retention efforts and new student orientation. Last year, as interim president, she invested in staffing and resources to increase enrollment, recruited new leadership in fundraising and alumni relations, developed a Short-Term Strategic Plan, and launched the Whittier Now! initiative, coming full circle in her commitment to serve the College.
“The Whittier College Alumni Association is thrilled to formally welcome Dr. Kristine Dillon as our new president,” Chair Rachel (Homel) Rice ’96 said.
Dillon was dean of academic services and student affairs at Tufts University from 1998-2002 and a senior student affairs officer at the University of Southern California from 1985-1998. She served on the Whittier College Board from 1994-2012 and chaired its Enrollment and Student Life Committee from 2002-2012. She returned to the board in the spring of 2023 before becoming interim president.
“Kristine Dillon’s installation as president of Whittier College is truly a cause for celebration,” said Professor Deborah Norden, who will lead a moment of silence during the ceremony. “Kristine brings with her not only a deep understanding of the mission and history of the College but the energy and commitment to allow this beautiful institution to thrive. I look forward to watching this college soar under her adept leadership.”
The ceremony will be followed by a brief, festive reception. All members of the Whittier community are encouraged to register by Oct. 11. Visit Whittier.advancementform.com/event/homecoming2024/register and check the corresponding box to sign up for it and other Homecoming events.
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