Western New England University proudly announces the election of President Robert E. Johnson as Chair of the Board of Directors for the Association of Independent Colleges and Universities in Massachusetts (AICU Mass) for the 2023-2024 term. Joining him in key leadership positions are vice-chair, President Steven DiSalvo of Endicott College, and secretary and treasurer, President Mary-Lou Retelle of Anna Maria College.
AICU Mass, the influential advocacy organization representing independent colleges and universities in Massachusetts, welcomes three esteemed new members to its Board: President William Leahy of Boston College, President Kenneth Elmore of Dean College, and President Michaele Whelan of Wheaton College. Their appointments became effective on June 1, 2023.
President Johnson expressed his enthusiasm for assuming the position of Chair, "In the past year, the work of AICU Mass has included critical convenings around the topics of diversity and belonging, and the mental health of our college communities. With our private colleges and universities in Massachusetts educating more Pell eligible and first-generation college students, creating policies around access and affordability will remain a top priority. I am very much looking forward to serving as chair."
Rob McCarron, President and CEO of AICU Mass, praised President Johnson's wealth of experience and expressed confidence in his contribution to the organization's work. "Dr. Johnson's career in higher education is so rich and varied, with experience in both the public and private sectors, serving both small and large schools. I know he will bring tremendous insight to our work; I am looking forward to working with him."
President Johnson succeeds Suffolk University President Marisa Kelly as Chair of the AICU Mass Board of Directors, while she continues to serve as an ex-officio member.
