Vermont Business Magazine Dr. Sherry Kollmann officially began her tenure as president of Vermont State University today, where she will build on the rich history of the university’s legacy campuses while continuing the university’s forward momentum.
President Kollmann expressed her excitement at joining Vermont State University, saying, “What’s impressed me most about Vermont and Vermont State University are the people. From the dedicated faculty and staff who are actively shaping minds and lives, to the incredible students who are laying the groundwork for their careers, job changes, and future aspirations. It’s an honor and a privilege to step into this leadership role and I look forward to connecting with more and more as the year progresses.”
As president, Dr. Kollmann is committed to advancing an enrollment growth strategy that expands access and opportunity for learners across the state. This includes a strong emphasis on growing enrollment across Vermont State University’s programs, learning modalities, and campuses—ensuring the university meets learners where they are through flexible, high-quality pathways, including online, hybrid, and campus-based experiences.
President Kollmann joins Vermont State after serving as Chancellor of New Mexico State University Global Campus. She brings over 25 years of experience in higher education, business and public service to her new role, including time at the Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services, where she led the development and implementation of statewide education and training programs. She also served as Senior Associate Dean of Business Programs at Southern New Hampshire University and as Vice President of the School of Graduate and Professional Studies at New England College.
The Vermont State Colleges Board of Trustees announced her selection on March 9, 2026, following a comprehensive national search.
“President Kollmann will lead Vermont State University in a time of tremendous change in higher education, particularly public higher education,” stated Lynne Dickinson, Chair of the Vermont State Colleges Board of Trustees. “She’s already building upon the foundation laid by her predecessors to ensure the university continues meeting the moment in education, workforce development, and its contributions to community vibrancy and resiliency.”
President Kollmann has a strong background in aligning business and industry workforce needs to university programs, and student needs to student success. A first-generation college student herself, President Kollmann has an enduring commitment to expanding access to education and training, and supporting students whose paths through higher education may not be traditional.
At New Mexico State University Global Campus, she successfully grew online enrollment to more than 3,500 students, developed more than 80 in-demand degree and certificate programs, secured $17 million in state appropriations, and generated more than $30 million in tuition revenue.
President Kollmann added, “education and training after high school has tremendous power in transforming lives, families, and communities. We see that every day at Vermont State University and it's a proud legacy I’m excited to build and contribute to. We are in a moment of global change and opportunity, and that brings forward endless possibilities for our students and our communities.”
In addition to her appointment as president of Vermont State University, President Kollmann will serve as Vice Chancellor of the Vermont State Colleges System alongside Community College of Vermont President Joyce Judy and under the leadership of Vermont State Colleges System Chancellor Elizabeth Mauch.
“President Kollmann has already hit the ground running this summer, bringing her extensive experience, expertise, and fresh ideas to Vermont State University,” shared Elizabeth Mauch, Chancellor of the Vermont State Colleges System. “I look forward to working hand-in-hand with her and President Judy as we move the Vermont State Colleges System into their next chapter.”
President Kollmann has a PhD in Instructional Psychology and Technology from the University of Oklahoma. Her research focuses on digital learning systems, learning science, motivational implications for faculty performance and inclusive and equity-driven education, with particular attention to underserved and rural populations. She also holds a Master of Education from the University of Oklahoma, a Master of Arts from Concordia University, and a Bachelor of Arts from Bethel University.
President Kollmann succeeds Dr. David Bergh, president of Vermont State University from 2023 until his retirement in 2026.
About Vermont State University
Vermont State University, Vermont’s statewide public university, provides transformative, future‑ready education that empowers learners to shape their own course – professionally, personally, and within their communities. Rooted in Vermont values, Vermont State delivers hands‑on, career‑connected learning through in‑person, fully online, and blended programs built for real lives and real goals. Built in Vermont. Made for Everywhere. Learn more at VermontState.edu.
7.1.2026. Castleton, VT – VermontState.edu
Vermont State University is built upon the best of Castleton University, Northern Vermont University, and Vermont Technical College. Accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education, July 1, 2023. At Vermont State University, we foster a culture of diversity, equity, inclusion, and social justice and strive to be a welcoming, diverse, and inclusive learning and working environment.
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