Meet the Leaders Transforming Higher Education

Explore the Impact and Achievements of the CDI Leadership Institute Alumni

The CDI Leadership Institute alumni represent a distinguished network of university presidents, provosts, and senior administrators dedicated to driving transformative change on their campuses. These visionary leaders are setting new standards for constructive dialogue and open inquiry in higher education.

Take a closer look at how these campus innovators continue to advance their missions with the support of CDI’s proven frameworks, expert guidance, and dynamic alumni community.

Institutional Leadership

Jonathan AlgerPresident, American University

Hiram ChodoshPresident, Claremont McKenna College

Matthew vandenBergPresident, Ohio Wesleyan University

Kathryn MorrisPresident, St. Lawrence University

Timothy SandsPresident, Virginia Tech

Campus Senior Leadership

NKenge FridayVice President for Inclusive Excellence, American University

Thomas W. MerrillAssociate Professor & Director of the Lincoln Scholar Program, American University

Bridget TrogdenDean of Undergraduate Education & Academic Student Services, American University

Vicky WilkinsActing Provost & Chief Academic Officer, American University

Heather AntecolVice President for Academic Affairs & Dean of the Faculty, Claremont McKenna College

Dianna GravesVice President of Student Affairs, Claremont McKenna College

Vince GreerAssistant Vice President of Student Affairs for Dialogue and Diversity, Claremont McKenna College

Ashley BiserAssociate Professor of Politics and Government, Ohio Wesleyan University

Dawn ChisebeChief Diversity Officer, Ohio Wesleyan University

Karlyn CrowleyProvost, Ohio Wesleyan University

Adam SmithAssociate Professor of Politics and Government, Ohio Wesleyan University

Dwayne ToddVice President of Student Engagement and Success, Ohio Wesleyan University

Kim AschExecutive Director of Strategic Communications and Marketing, St. Lawrence University

Alison Del RossiVice President of the University and Dean of Academic Affairs, St. Lawrence University

Jon DurajVice President for Student Life and Dean of Students, St. Lawrence University

Jeff FrankProfessor of Education, St. Lawrence University

James BridgeforthAssistant Vice President for Student Affairs and ExperienceVT, Virginia Tech

Ellington GravesAssociate Vice Provost for Diversity and Inclusion, Virginia Tech

Chelsea HainesStudent Affairs Chief of Staff, Virginia Tech

Frances KeeneVice President for Student Affairs, Virginia Tech

The facilitators set realistic expectations and a clear roadmap to pursue institutional goals. We are really excited about our direction and appreciate this time to dive into things as a team and with others who are similarly invested. The stakes are high, and we have a responsibility to tackle this work aggressively.

Dianna "DT" GravesVice President for Student Affairs - Claremont McKenna College

A Lifelong Network of Visionary Leaders

After completing the CDI Leadership Institute, campus leaders remain part of a supportive, forward-thinking community dedicated to advancing constructive dialogue on their campuses. This network shares insights, strategies, and resources to help sustain transformative initiatives. As alumni, participants can:

Leverage curated tools and ongoing guidance to further campus impact.
Draw on the expertise of fellow higher education innovators for peer exchange.
Access targeted support for refining and implementing emerging strategies.

The 2024 cohort of the Constructive Dialogue Leadership Institute was made possible by a generous gift from the Mike and Sofia Segal Foundation.

Building a Culture of Constructive Dialogue on Campus: Lessons from Leading Institutions

Meet the Leaders Transforming Higher Education

Explore the Impact and Achievements of the CDI Leadership Institute Alumni

Institutional Leadership

Campus Senior Leadership

A Lifelong Network of Visionary Leaders