Trident Technical College has selected Dr. Jennifer L. Cumpston as its next vice president for Academic Affairs, bringing to the college extensive experience in higher education leadership, academic innovation, student success initiatives and workforce development partnerships.
Dr. Cumpston most recently served as dean of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) at College of DuPage in Illinois, one of the nation’s largest community colleges. In that role, she provided strategic leadership for a large and diverse portfolio of academic programs and oversaw one of the college’s largest academic divisions.
As vice president for academic affairs, Dr. Cumpston will lead Trident Technical College’s academic division, supporting instructional excellence, student success, workforce alignment and strategic initiatives that serve the needs of students, employers and the region.
“Dr. Cumpston brings an impressive record of academic leadership, innovation and collaboration,” said Dr. Vicky Wood, president of Trident Technical College. “Her commitment to student success, academic excellence and innovative workforce partnerships aligns closely with Trident Technical College’s mission. We look forward to the expertise and vision she will bring as we continue preparing students for meaningful careers and lifelong learning.”
Throughout her career, Dr. Cumpston has led transformational initiatives focused on student achievement, enrollment growth, emerging technologies and industry partnerships. At College of DuPage, she co-led the Strategic Enrollment Management Committee charged with developing the institution’s Strategic Enrollment Management Plan and served on the college’s President’s Council. In addition, Dr. Cumpston established the Next Chapter Incubator and was charged with establishing a collegewide Innovation Council. She also directed a $4 million Fund for the Improvement of Postsecondary Education (FIPSE) grant initiative focused on expanding aviation education and strengthening workforce development. Dr. Cumpston also led the creation of an AI literacy initiative in partnership with Intel.
Prior to joining College of DuPage, Dr. Cumpston served as dean of General Studies at Gateway Technical College in Wisconsin, where she led the college’s largest academic division and spearheaded significant student success reforms. Earlier in her career, she was chair of Physical Sciences and a tenured faculty member at Oakton College in Illinois.
“I am honored to join Trident Technical College and become part of an institution with such a strong reputation for student success, workforce preparation and community impact,” said Dr. Cumpston. “I look forward to working alongside faculty, staff, students and community partners to build on the college’s achievements and advance educational opportunities that support the needs of the Tricounty region.”
Dr. Cumpston holds a Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership from the University of the Cumberlands, a Master of Business Administration from the University of the Cumberlands, a Master of Science in Geology from Northern Illinois University, and a Bachelor of Arts in Geography from the University of Illinois.
A nationally recognized higher education leader, Dr. Cumpston has received numerous honors, including multiple League for Innovation in the Community College awards and recognition from the American Association for Women in Community Colleges.
Dr. Cumpston began her role at Trident Technical College on Aug. 10.