Bard College Appoints Acting President

Bard College appointed Dr. Jonathan Becker as its interim president on June 15, 2026, following the departure of former president Leon Botstein. Dr. Becker, who has served as the college’s vice president for academic affairs and dean of the faculty since 2017, will lead Bard College through its presidential transition. His appointment comes after Botstein’s resignation, which was announced in April 2026, concluding his 30-year tenure at the institution. Becker’s prior experience includes a professorship in the sociology department at Bard and leadership roles within the college’s academic administration. The college has initiated a search process for a permanent president, with the board of trustees overseeing the selection committee. Dr. Becker’s immediate focus will be on maintaining the college’s academic mission and operational stability during this period of change. He previously held positions at other academic institutions before joining Bard College.