HELENA — Carroll College is kicking off the school year with their first day of classes, and this year marks a leadership milestone. The school’s first female president is officially taking the helm.
Watch the full story here:
“The beginning of this academic year is full of promise and full of hope,” said Carroll associate professor of theology Katherine Greiner.
After serving as co-president alongside Bishop Austin Vetter last year, Dr. Jennifer Glowienka officially steps in after more than two decades at Carroll in both teaching and leadership roles.
“I hope that I can serve as a role model for other young women, that shows them that anything is possible,” Glowienka stated. “I hope that some day the fact that I'm a female becomes unremarkable.”
Dr. Glowienka spent the morning greeting students, handing out breakfast, and making an effort to connect with students, which she says is a priority for her first year — something students say reflects the tone she’s already set on campus.
“Dr. Gloweinka's presence is everywhere,” exclaimed student body president Maria Ackerman. “She walks into every room with a smile, introduces herself to all the students. She's very good at remembering our names and knowing who we are.”
“She's very personal asking how everyone’s summer is going, asking when’s their first class and really trying to get to know each person individually,” said senior Sydney Forrey.
Faculty and staff say the transition feels natural after Dr. Glowienka spent years as both a professor and administrator at the college.
““She's been here over 20 years,” said vice president of student engagement Kathleen O'Leary. “You feel that, you feel the energy, you can see it right now with all the people that are here cheering her on.”
Dr. Glowienka hopes to continue carrying out Carroll's mission to promote student outreach, prepare students for a world after college, expand programs, and focus on what they’re here for - the students.
“We want our student government’s voice to be loud and heard, and the administration does a very good job listening to students' voices,” Ackerman continued, “wanting us to feel heard and valued, and I think just continuing that culture is important to us.”
Dr. Glowienka will be officially inaugurated as Carroll's 20th president on Tuesday, September 15th.
