President Kathleen Poorman Dougherty is leading Marietta College through a period of renewed ambition, institutional strength, and investment in the future. Under her leadership, the College has advanced a transformational strategic plan, achieved two consecutive years of record fundraising, increased its assets, and strengthened the financial foundation necessary to serve future generations of students.
At the center of her presidency is a clear promise: that a Marietta education will provide a lifetime of opportunity. The College’s strategic priorities focus on academic innovation, an exceptional student experience that highlights experiential education, and deeper partnerships across the region. Together, these efforts are designed to ensure that every student’s Marietta experience is a Landmark Experience that prepares them with a clear path to success.
President Dougherty has established new avenues for the College to contribute to the future of Appalachian Ohio. With a $1.5 million investment from the State of Ohio, she facilitated the development of the Center for Appalachian Innovation, which is connecting faculty and students with partners working to advance the region. She also launched the Center for Earth, Energy and Environment, building on Marietta’s historic strength in Petroleum Engineering while preparing students to engage with the evolving future of energy.
She has made academic growth and student success central to the College’s direction. Building on Marietta’s highly regarded Physician Assistant Program, she has committed the College to expanding its health sciences offerings, including a Master of Clinical Mental Health Counseling along with additional graduate programs under development. A $1 million investment in the new Milone Center further strengthens career preparation and helps students connect their education with lives of purpose and professional achievement.
As Marietta College enters a defining new chapter, President Dougherty has launched an ambitious campaign to build on the College’s momentum. The campaign will provide the resources to invest in students, advance the College’s transformation, and carry Marietta’s distinctive mission forward. The record-setting transformational commitment announced with the launch represents the largest gift in Marietta College’s history and reflects growing confidence in the College’s direction.
Dr. Dougherty previously served as Marietta College’s Provost and Dean of the Faculty and as Provost at Alma College, in addition to holding faculty and leadership positions at numerous institutions. She earned a B.A. in Philosophy from St. Olaf College and a Ph.D. in Philosophy from the University of Oklahoma. Her scholarship in moral theory, virtue ethics, and the development of character continues to shape a leadership philosophy grounded in purpose, responsibility, and the transformative power of education. A native of Ashland, Ohio, she is proud to lead an institution whose future is deeply connected to the people and promise of its region.