WINSTON-SALEM, NC (FEBRUARY 27, 2020)—Sandra J. Doran, the president of Salem Academy and College, announced today that she is concluding her tenure at the end of the academic year. She has accepted the presidency of Bay Path University in Longmeadow, Massachusetts.
Named as interim president of Salem in April 2018, Doran was charged by the Board of Trustees to achieve financial sustainability and position Salem for growth, according to Dara Folan, chairman of Salem’s Board of Trustees.
In a video message to Salem’s students, faculty, staff, alumnae and donors, Doran said, “I am making this move with mixed emotions: Salem is a splendid institution, founded before our country was a country and enriched by the talents, accomplishments and loyalty of its alumnae. The city of Winston-Salem and leaders around the state have been incredibly supportive of our mission. And Steve and I have made many dear friends here. At the same time, I am happy to have a new professional challenge, at another women’s college.
“In addition, Salem’s extensive strategic planning process is nearing conclusion, and we will soon be ready for the next phase—implementation. That means, too, that we are ready for new leadership. Because my charge was always to be a transitional leader, I decided the time was right for me to open the way for a new, longer-term president of Salem,” Doran said.
“Sandy helped transform our institution by leading the successful Step Up for Salem campaign that exceeded its $10 million goal and led the lifting of Salem’s financial probation by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) earlier than anticipated,” said Folan.
“Under Sandy’s leadership, Salem has strengthened its position as a vibrant part of the educational ecosystem,” added Folan. “The Board of Trustees and the Salem community are deeply grateful for Sandy’s intellect, passion, tireless service, and charismatic leadership. Her greatest legacy is that she is leaving Salem well positioned for its next exciting chapter. Now we have the unique opportunity to find the right person to make our strategic plans a reality.”
Folan said that the search process for Doran’s successor will begin soon.
“The institution will seek candidates who embrace Salem’s history and are enthusiastic about its future strategic direction,” he said.
See also: February 27 Letter to the Community from Sandra J. Doran
Salem Academy and College is the oldest educational institution for girls and women in the United States. It was founded in 1772, well before the signing of the Declaration of Independence. For more information about Salem Academy, please visit salemacademy.com. For more information about Salem College, please visit salem.edu.