Adrian College Names Dr. Antonis ‘Tony’ Coumoundouros 18th President
Posted Tuesday, August 18, 2026
The Adrian College Board of Trustees has appointed Dr. Antonis (Tony) Coumoundouros as the institution’s 18th President, marking the beginning of the next chapter of leadership built on innovation, academic excellence, and a deep commitment to the College’s mission.
Coumoundouros, who currently serves as Dean of Graduate Studies and Continuing Education and is a longtime professor of philosophy and leadership, succeeds President Jeffrey R. Docking, whose more than two decades of leadership transformed Adrian College and established a strong foundation for its future. Having served Adrian College in numerous academic and administrative leadership roles, Coumoundouros brings extensive institutional knowledge, a record of graduate enrollment growth, program innovation, and community engagement to the presidency. His vision emphasizes honoring Adrian College’s traditions while preparing the institution for the opportunities and challenges of higher education’s future.
“Tony Coumoundouros is the right leader at the right time for Adrian College,” said Patrick Farver, Chairman of the Adrian College Board of Trustees. “Throughout the presidential search process, it became increasingly clear that Tony possesses the vision, integrity, and proven leadership necessary to build upon Adrian College’s remarkable momentum. He understands who we are, where we’ve been, and most importantly, where we can go. The Board is confident that he will lead Adrian College into its next chapter with energy, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to our students.”
“Dr. Coumoundouros is an exceptional choice to serve as the next president of Adrian College,” said current President Jeffrey Docking. “He has earned the trust and respect of faculty, staff, administrators, and students, and he brings an impressive record of leadership, service, and accomplishment to this important role. With 20 years of experience in higher education, he is well prepared to address the challenges facing colleges today while advancing Adrian College’s mission and leading the institution toward an even stronger future. He has my full support.”
As Dean of Graduate Studies and Continuing Education, Coumoundouros has overseen significant success launching new graduate programs aligned with workforce demand, expanding partnerships with business and educational organizations, and leading major academic initiatives designed to enhance student success and institutional sustainability. His leadership has also included service as Faculty President, Director of the Institute for Leadership and Ethics, Department Chair, and Faculty Athletic Representative.
David Hickman, Adrian College Trustee and Chair of the Presidential Search Committee, praised the extensive national search and the outcome.
“The Search Committee conducted a thorough and thoughtful process to identify a leader who could guide Adrian College through the rapidly changing landscape of higher education,” Hickman said. “Tony distinguished himself through his strategic vision, his demonstrated success in driving academic innovation, and his authentic commitment to the Adrian College community. Just as importantly, he has earned the respect of faculty, staff, students, alumni, and trustees alike. We are excited for the future under his leadership.”
Coumoundouros has outlined a vision centered on four strategic priorities: expanding enrollment, strengthening workforce-integrated liberal arts education, fostering strategic partnerships and innovation, and enhancing the student experience through academic and athletic excellence. His leadership philosophy emphasizes preserving Adrian College’s distinctive culture while embracing thoughtful innovation that prepares students for meaningful careers and lives of purpose.
“I am deeply honored and humbled by the confidence the Board of Trustees has placed in me,” said Coumoundouros. “Adrian College has been my professional home for nearly twenty years, and I have witnessed firsthand the extraordinary dedication of our faculty, staff, students, alumni, and trustees. Together, we will honor the legacy that has made Adrian College exceptional while boldly embracing new opportunities to expand our impact, strengthen our academic mission, and prepare our students to lead lives of purpose and distinction.”
A member of Adrian College’s faculty since 2008, Coumoundouros earned his bachelor’s degree from Radford University and both his master’s degree and Ph.D. in philosophy from Duquesne University. Throughout his career, he has combined scholarly excellence with administrative leadership, helping shape Adrian College’s academic programs, enrollment strategy, and institutional partnerships.
The Board of Trustees will announce details regarding Coumoundouros’ inauguration and campus celebrations in the coming weeks. President-Elect Coumoundouros will officially begin his presidency on January 1, 2027.
About Adrian College
Founded in 1859, Adrian College is a private liberal arts college in Adrian, Michigan, committed to providing an engaged, student-centered educational experience that prepares graduates for careers, leadership, and lifelong learning. Through innovative academic programs, championship athletics, and a vibrant campus community, Adrian College empowers students to make a meaningful difference in the world.
