Guilford College President Dr. Kyle Farmbry announced his resignation last week after serving three years at the helm of the historic private Quaker institution located in North Carolina. The departure comes as the college grapples with growing budget deficits and adapts to changes in higher education.
Farmbry was the first African American to lead the institution.
The Board of Trustees has appointed fellow trustee Jean Parvin Bordewich, to serve as Acting President.
During his tenure, Farmbry navigated several challenges, including a significant cyberattack in 2022. Despite these obstacles, he launched several innovative programs and initiatives that expanded the college's reach. Notable achievements include the establishment of a new MBA program, the creation of the Presidential Fellows program, and the launch of Guilford Rise, a summer institute for rising high school seniors.
"I take pride in so much that we have accomplished over the past several years," Farmbry said in a statement. "Most of all, I have enjoyed walking alongside our students on their journeys of discovery."
Bordewich brings extensive experience from her career as a senior U.S. Senate staff member and work in philanthropy. She acknowledged the financial challenges facing the institution while expressing optimism about its future.
"We have within us the ability and wisdom to change and adapt to the new era that has arrived in higher education and in the world," Bordewich stated. "Together, Guilfordians -- all of us -- will find the way to a vibrant, sustainable future for our very special community."
