Independence Community College’s Board of Trustees voted unanimously on Friday, April 9, 2021, to name Dr. Vincent Bowhay President.
“The Board has been impressed with Dr. Bowhay’s capable and steady leadership in light of the challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic and presidential search process,” said Dr. Cindi Sherwood, Board of Trustees chair. “The Board received positive praise from the campus and Independence community regarding the stability and leadership he has provided since arriving as Vice President for Student Affairs. We believe this is the right step forward for the college after an extended Presidential search and we are excited for the energy and stability Dr. Bowhay will bring to the position.”
Formal events will be planned in the future, when COVID-19 conditions permit appropriate celebrations. Dr. Sherwood and Dr. Bowhay will meet with the media following the April 19th Board of Trustees meeting.
Dr. Bowhay was named Independence Community College’s vice president for student affairs in November 2019, after being selected through a nationwide search. In this role, Dr. Bowhay has overseen the College’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic. He has directed the launch of several of the College’s new initiatives such as esports and the Veterans Success Center. Dr. Bowhay has developed a deep passion for promoting both ICC and the greater Independence community. He has been a leader on several important campus communities and is dedicated to the success of faculty, staff, and students.
Before coming to Independence Community College, Dr. Bowhay was career development director at Missouri Western State University and held various positions at Fort Hays State University.
Dr. Bowhay grew up in Hoyt, Kansas, graduated from Royal Valley High School and has family throughout the eastern part of the state. He earned a Bachelor of Arts in English Literature from Washburn University, Master of Arts in Student Affairs from Ball State University, and Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership from Baker University.