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Dr. Robert Head

• College also appoints vice president for enrollment management

Online Staff Report

Robert L. Head, Ph.D., 17th president of Rockford College, has accepted the Rockford College Board of Trustees’ offer to extend his current contract for an additional two years. Dr. Head’s contract will now carry through the completion of academic year 2015-2016, ending June 30, 2016.

Charles Colman, chairm of the Rockford College Board of Trustees, said, “Under the leadership of Dr. Head, the college is enjoying its sixth year of a balanced budget, significant improvements to the campus, and despite some of the most economically difficult times for our nation, steady growth in enrollment.

“Robert and his wife, Sheryl, have also immersed themselves in a wide variety of area organizations, devoting their time and talents for the betterment of the community,” Colman added. “The board looks forward to continuing the positive momentum established under Dr. Head’s administration.”

Since Dr. Head’s arrival in June 2008, the college has embarked on an aggressive and comprehensive strategic plan that focuses on the following three main strategies to further distinguish the college:

1. Through academic programs designed to expand the college’s academic reputation;

2. Through its commitment to the whole student experience; and

3. Through stewardship of its assets — both human and physical.

Since 2008, the college has invested more than $7 million in capital improvements across all areas of the campus, including technology, classroom and building upgrades; several new or expanded degree offerings; resurfacing of all of its roadways; and endowment growth of more than $1.5 million.

Rockford College also announced Oct. 2, 2012, that it will change to Rockford University effective July 1, 2013, to better reflect the diverse programming and current structure of the166-year-old institution.

“It’s been very satisfying to work side by side with the college’s dedicated faculty, staff, students, alumni, board and friends,” Dr. Head said. “We have worked hard, and as a result, experienced many successes with many more to come. I’m excited to have this opportunity to continue our work that will further secure the legacy of this remarkable institution for generations of learners to come.”

Eric Fulcomer, Ph.D., named VP for enrollment management

Eric Fulcomer, Ph.D., has been appointed vice president for enrollment management at Rockford College. Dr. Fulcomer will assume his duties March 4. He will be responsible for management of undergraduate admissions, global affairs, athletics, retention, financial aid, registration and student billing.

Dr. Fulcomer received his bachelor’s degree from Eastern Michigan University, a master’s degree from Bowling Green State University, and his doctorate in Higher Education Administration from the University of Toledo.

“Recruiting students who have every opportunity to thrive and succeed at Rockford College is of ultimate importance,” Dr. Head said. “Eric’s proven breadth of experience to successfully manage the increasingly competitive landscape of student recruitment will be of great benefit as we look to support the deliberate and sustainable growth of our institution.”

Dr. Fulcomer serves as mayor of the Village of Bluffton, Ohio, announcing his resignation of the position March 1. Prior to taking on responsibilities as mayor in 2012, Dr. Fulcomer worked from 1993 to June of 2012 at Bluffton University (Bluffton, Ohio) in a variety of leadership roles, most recently as vice president for enrollment management and student life.

Dr. Fulcomer expressed he was drawn to Rockford College for its stated mission of providing an education “grounded in liberal arts learning and complemented and extended by professional and practical experiences.”

“The college’s commitment to preparation for life and vocation resonates with me,” Dr. Fulcomer said. “Rockford College is a well-respected and thriving institution, and I look forward to being a part of the growth and change that Rockford is experiencing.”

Dr. Fulcomer is also active in the classroom, teaching courses in the undergraduate and master’s programs at multiple universities. He is teaching courses in Bluffton’s MBA program and hopes to be able to continue teaching once settled in Rockford.

Dr. Fulcomer and his wife, Andrea, a physician assistant, have two school-aged children.

Posted Feb. 19, 2013