Cross-appointment sees Dr. Kathrine Swanson assume interim leadership role at Park University.
Kathrine Swanson Takes Over as Interim President of Park University
Kathrine Swanson, a seasoned educator and community leader, has been appointed as the interim president of Park University, effective from April 23, 2025. Swanson, who hails from Parkville, brings a wealth of experience in higher education and student services to her new role.
Swanson's career in academia began at Montana State University and Northern Arizona University, where she worked in student services. She later moved on to serve as a higher education leader at Montgomery County (Pa.) Community College and Collin County (Texas) Community College (now known as Collin College). In August 2015, Swanson joined MCC as its vice chancellor for student success and engagement, a position she held until June 2023.
From August 2021 to August 2024, Swanson served as president of the Metropolitan Community College Longview Campus in Lee's Summit, Mo. During her tenure, she also served on the boards for Saint Luke's East Hospital, Lee's Summit Creates, Lee's Summit Chamber of Commerce, Lee's Summit Workforce Alliance, Lee's Summit Civic Roundtable, and Raytown (Mo.) Chamber of Commerce.
Swanson's educational background is impressive. She earned her bachelor's degree in business management from Northern Michigan University and a master's degree in adult and higher education from Montana State University. Swanson furthered her studies by earning a doctorate degree in higher education administration from the University of North Texas and a graduate certificate in leadership coaching from Avila University.
Swanson has also been active in community organisations, serving as a member of the Parkville Rotary Club. Recently, she completed a term on the Executive Women's Leadership Council with the Greater Kansas City Chamber of Commerce.
Shane Smeed, previously the president of Park University, announced his departure in February 2025. Smeed has since accepted the presidency at Utah Tech University and will begin his new duties on May 1.
A search for Park University's permanent president will begin in the coming months. A presidential search committee will develop a prospectus in the fall, followed by a national search of candidates, with an expected start date for the new president by June 2026.
For a more detailed account of Swanson's background, educational qualifications, and leadership experience at Park University, one would typically look for official Park University announcements, her professional biographies on university websites, or academic leadership directories.
Kathrine Swanson's extensive background in higher education and student services, coupled with her dedication to personal growth and career development, makes her an ideal candidate for fostering education-and-self-development at Park University. During her tenure as president of the Metropolitan Community College Longview Campus, Swanson prioritized the development of students, as well as being involved in various community organizations and boards, contributing to her community-leadership role.
