Matthew Derr

CRAFTSBURY COMMON, Vt. – Following nearly 10 years of leadership, Sterling College President Matthew Derr is stepping down from his role next semester.

The announcement was shared with the Sterling community on August 5 by Sterling board chair Pete Chehayl, who praised Derr for his long standing leadership. “Through his good work at Sterling, Matthew has inspired many to consider what is possible in higher education and how it can be a force that strengthens the human relationship with the natural world,” said Chehayl. “Matthew has expanded the College’s aspirations while also honoring its legacy and character.”

Chehayl noted Matthew’s thoughtfulness regarding this decision, which has been careful and intentional. “Sterling is well-prepared for this moment,” said Chehayl. “The College has adopted a bold strategic initiative, is in a strong financial position, and has experienced multiple years of operational surpluses through stable enrollment and mission-aligned philanthropy. In the last year we have celebrated the first commencement of the Wendell Berry Farming Program, seen a collaborative and agile response to the pandemic, appointed an exceptional leadership team, and now have an increased capacity for diversity, equity, and inclusion work.”

Derr’s tenure at Sterling College included several notable accomplishments, including a 24% growth in enrollment and the completion of the largest comprehensive campaign in its history, aptly named Nourish the Roots. In his time, more than $20 million in philanthropy was generated from mission-aligned donors. This record breaking fundraising enabled capital improvements, new programming such as the Wendell Berry Farming Program, the establishment of the Rian Fried Center for Sustainable Agriculture & Food Systems, and increased affordability and access for Sterling students.

In the coming months, Sterling’s Board of Trustees will begin the process to identify the College’s 12th president. The trustees will have the support of a newly formed Presidential Transition Team and have named Lori Collins-Hall, currently Sterling’s Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, as interim president. Collins-Hall has spent twenty-five years in higher education as a scholar-practitioner, engaging students in transformative learning opportunities and high-impact community engagement.

“Lori is deeply committed to the College’s mission and is extremely well prepared to lead Sterling, working constructively with the board, senior leadership team, faculty, staff, and students,” offered Rick Detweiler, Sterling trustee and past-treasurer. She will begin the interim role on November 1, 2021.

Derr’s future plans include writing a book and consulting on projects that fulfill his ongoing commitment to ecological thinking and action. In a letter to students and employees, Derr shared, “I am honored to have served Sterling College and am sincerely grateful for all those who have worked and learned alongside me. We have accomplished so much in our time together.”