The Simpson College board of trustees has named Susan D. Stuebner, interim president since July, the Indianola college’s next president. 

She fills a role left vacant following the death of Jay Byers, who died on April 17. 

Stuebner became interim president on July 28. She will be the 26th president of Simpson College. 

The appointment follows a formal performance review process conducted by Academic Search, a national search firm specializing in higher education institutions.

Throughout her nearly 30-year career in higher education, Stuebner’s professional interests have centered on ensuring the accessibility and sustainability of private, regional, liberal arts colleges, a news release said. 

Before coming to Simpson, she served as president and professor of business and social sciences at Colby-Sawyer College in New London, N.H., for eight years. She served as an adviser to interim President Laura Sykes during the 2024-25 academic year.

Stuebner also held roles as executive vice president and chief operating officer at Allegheny College in Meadville, Pa. Additionally, she spent 10 years at Lycoming College in Williamsport, Pa., where she held multiple senior administrative roles, culminating with her appointment as vice president for administration and planning. 

Board president Terry Handley said in the release that Stuebner’s past success as a president and overwhelmingly positive feedback from the campus community made the board’s decision an easy one. 

“Faculty, staff and student leaders were enthusiastic in their praise for President Stuebner and the many leadership strengths she brings to Simpson College,” he said. “Sue’s authenticity and transparency in engaging with the campus community have already gone a long way in building early trust and confidence. The board is eager to partner with her in designing and realizing a promising future for Simpson.”

Her early career included roles as freshman proctor for Harvard University in Cambridge, Mass. and admissions counselor and head women’s basketball coach at Albright College in Reading, Pa.

Stuebner said the opportunity to officially serve as president of Simpson is a “tremendous opportunity.” 

“From the moment I arrived on campus, I have resonated with the values and approach of this incredible learning community. Seeing our exceptional faculty and staff in action as they create a transformational educational experience for our students is truly inspiring,” Stuebner said in the press release. “Simpson students and alumni exhibit so much passion about their time on campus and are making a difference in their professions and communities. I look forward to partnering with the Simpson community in pursuing new avenues of innovative excellence to further distinguish Simpson as a national leader in liberal arts education.”

A Minnesota native, Stuebner earned her master’s and doctorate degrees from Harvard University and bachelor’s degree in psychology from Dartmouth College. She also spent five years as a teaching fellow at Harvard’s Graduate School of Education for courses focused on financial management, qualitative research and governance.