Elmira College President Charles W. Lindsay has announced plans to retire at the end of the 2025–2026 academic year. His retirement will take effect June 30, 2026, marking the conclusion of an eight-year tenure as the College’s 15th president.
Lindsay said serving as president has been an honor and credited the College’s progress to the dedication of its faculty, staff, administrators, trustees, and alumni.
“Together, we have achieved a great deal of progress over the past several years,” Lindsay said. “Now it is time to prepare for new leadership that can continue building on this momentum and take the College to the next level.”
During Lindsay’s presidency, Elmira College strengthened its financial position, reduced institutional debt, and saw increased giving over the past two years. The College also earned reaccreditation from the Middle States Commission on Higher Education on all seven standards.
Enrollment and student success have been key priorities under Lindsay’s leadership. The College introduced several new career-focused academic programs and expanded co-curricular offerings to include flag football, pep band, competitive dance, and club ice hockey. Men’s and women’s lacrosse also returned, along with the construction of a new turf field and growing partnerships with the City of Elmira and surrounding communities.
George H. Winner, Jr., chair of the Elmira College Board of Trustees, praised Lindsay’s leadership.
“Under his guidance, Elmira College has made tremendous progress—academically, financially, and institutionally,” Winner said. “His vision and commitment have positioned the College for a strong and successful future.”
The Board of Trustees will begin a national search for Lindsay’s successor in November 2025, with a goal of naming the next president by spring 2026. A dedicated webpage on elmira.edu will share updates on the search process.
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