To express their support and confidence in his work as president of Montreat College, the Board of Trustees has unanimously approved the extension of Paul Maurer’s contract for an additional five years.
“Under Paul’s visionary guidance over the past nine years, Montreat College has experienced remarkable growth and transformation, making substantial progress toward its vision to become the premier Christ-centered college in the Southeast United States,” said Dr. Jeffery E. Heck, chair of the college board of trustees. “The extension of President Maurer’s contract recognizes the significant achievements made during his tenure and reinforces the college’s commitment to its vision and continued progress toward it.”
During Maurer’s tenure, Montreat College has achieved numerous milestones and achievements, including but not limited to:
Historically High Enrollment: Traditional undergraduate enrollment has increased 71 percent since Fall 2014, with seven consecutive years of record enrollment. Enrollment for the School of Adult and Graduate Studies (AGS) has increased 25 percent over the past three years. Enrollment growth in higher education is not the norm given the declining birth rates in the United States in recent decades.
Strong and Relevant Academic Programs: Preparing students for contemporary challenges and meaningful vocation, Montreat College has emphasized STEM-related programs, notably in the health and natural sciences, and cybersecurity. The Honors Program has grown to over 100 students since its inception in 2012, and the college anticipates a record-high incoming class for Fall 2023. The college has also added seven new master’s programs in recent years, bringing its total offerings to ten master’s degree programs.
Cybersecurity: Montreat College has become a national leader in cybersecurity education and workforce development, working with leaders at the highest levels of the North Carolina and United States governments. The college is developing plans to build a state-of-the art cybersecurity building to serve the needs of our state and region, and to strengthen the economy of Western North Carolina. The college has created the Carolina Cyber Center (C3) to accelerate workforce development for North Carolina through The Academy and will soon provide cybersecurity services to small and mid-sized businesses, nonprofit organizations, and educational institutions.
Campus Development: The college has invested over $16M in over fifty campus improvements, including the construction of a new outdoor athletic complex in Black Mountain and major renovations of McLeod Hall, Abbott Hall, and Howerton Dining Hall. This summer, the college is investing $2.2M in updating its four residence halls. These improvements benefit students by enhancing their learning and living environments.
Increased Gift and Grant Income: During President Maurer’s tenure, Montreat College has received nearly $100M in private gifts, pledges, and grants. More than $66M has been given or pledged to the college’s current capital campaign focused on expanding online programs, renovating residence halls, increasing scholarship funding, and building a cybersecurity facility. This marks the largest capital campaign in the history of Montreat College.
“President Maurer has been an exceptional, inspiring, and motivating leader for all members of our college community to strive for excellence,” said Dr. Heck. “I eagerly anticipate the continued positive impact he will have on Montreat College.”
Prior to Montreat College, Maurer served as president of Sterling College in Central Kansas. He became the eighth president of Montreat College in July 2014 and has more than 30 years of leadership in nonprofit and higher education administration. Maurer is currently the fifth longest-serving president among the 36 independent colleges and universities in North Carolina.