On Monday, February 15, Knox College announced C. Andrew McGadney as its choice to succeed Teresa Amott as President of Knox College. McGadney will be the 20th President of Knox College and the school’s first Black President.

McGadney greeted Knox by expressing excitement about joining the Galesburg community, and saying he had enjoyed engaging with students and staff throughout the search process.

“Knox is an incredible gem within the higher education landscape with an incredible and distinguished history,” McGadney said. “… It’s a remarkable place to develop young minds for the future.”

McGadney comes to Knox from Colby College in Maine, where he is the Vice President and Dean of Student Advancement. He also previously served as Vice President for University Advancement at Clarke University.

He is a graduate of Wesleyan University, where he earned his degree in Sociology and African-American Studies. McGadney also has a Master’s from Colombia University and a Doctorate from the University of Pennsylvania, both in the field of Education.

The search process for the next President was led by Search Committee Chair Tony Etz ‘83, who at the announcement thanked the Knox community members who assisted in the search. McGadney, who was said to have been the Board’s unanimous first choice, was praised by Etz for his leadership skills.

“He cares passionately. He connects with people. Student, staff, and faculty all remarked on his ability to see them and hear them, and respond with warmth and empathy,” Etz said.

Amott also welcomed her successor as President, describing him as a “visionary” leader to guide the college forward.

“I am so confident that the future of our beloved college is so bright,” she said.

TKS will continue to report on this developing story.