The College of St. Benedict in St. Joseph, Minnesota, has made history by appointing its first Black president. Dr. Mary Hinton, 43, will take the helm in June 2024, marking a significant milestone for the institution.
Breaking Barriers in Higher Education Leadership
Dr. Hinton’s appointment represents a groundbreaking moment for the College of St. Benedict. As the first Black president in the college’s history, she brings a fresh perspective to the role. Her selection underscores the institution’s commitment to diversity and inclusive leadership.
The announcement has been met with enthusiasm from the college community. Lynn Newman, chair of the board of trustees, praised Dr. Hinton’s credentials. “We were impressed with Dr. Hinton’s breadth and depth of experience as a scholar and senior-level administrator in higher education,” Newman stated.
A Distinguished Career in Academia
Dr. Hinton comes to St. Benedict with an impressive background in higher education. She currently serves as vice president for academic affairs at Mount St. Mary College in Newburgh, New York. Her previous roles include leadership positions at Misericordia University and Replications Inc., a New York school reform group.
With a doctoral degree in religion and religious education from Fordham University, Dr. Hinton brings a strong academic foundation to her new role. Her diverse experience in administration and education reform positions her well to lead St. Benedict into the future.
Vision for the Future of Liberal Arts Education
Dr. Hinton expressed her excitement about joining St. Benedict. “I am humbled by the opportunity to lead an institution with such a powerful liberal arts tradition,” she said. Her statement reflects a deep appreciation for the college’s heritage and a commitment to its ongoing success.
Rita Knuesel, provost at St. Benedict, described Dr. Hinton as “a visionary” with “a keen understanding of the changing landscape of higher education.” This insight will be crucial as St. Benedict navigates the challenges facing liberal arts colleges today.
Impact on Diversity and Inclusion
Dr. Hinton’s appointment is more than a personal achievement; it’s a significant step forward for diversity in higher education leadership. As the first Black president of St. Benedict, she will serve as an inspiration to students and faculty of color.
Her background includes experience as a chief planning and diversity officer, suggesting a strong commitment to inclusive practices. This expertise will likely inform her approach to leadership at St. Benedict, potentially shaping the college’s policies and culture.
Looking Ahead: Challenges and Opportunities
As Dr. Hinton prepares to take office in June, she faces both challenges and opportunities. The higher education landscape is rapidly evolving, with changing demographics, technological advancements, and shifting student expectations.
Dr. Hinton’s diverse experience and visionary approach position her well to address these challenges. Her leadership will be crucial in maintaining St. Benedict’s strong liberal arts tradition while adapting to the needs of today’s students.
