
Message from the President
Welcome!
I am thrilled that you have chosen to learn more about this special College that I am honored to lead. If you’re reading this message, you might be new to Mitchell College, wondering what we’re all about. I invite you to learn more about us by taking some time to look around our website. Or better yet, come visit us on our wonderful waterfront campus!
We are a small, close-knit community that offers many access points to education. Our professors, specialists, coaches, and advisors work with every student to help them discover their strengths and find their passion, guiding them to engage in the world with purpose.
How do we do that?
- We custom-tailor academic and career paths to help students realize their dreams.
- We have several options for students who learn differently and would benefit from additional support, including our celebrated Thames at Mitchell College program, SAILS Program, STAIRs program, and Bentsen Learning Center.
- We prepare students for employment or graduate school by teaching them how to communicate, analyze, interact and empathize — all skills that they will use in career and life.
- We give students practical experiences. 100% of Mitchell graduates complete at least one internship or on-campus career lab. We partner with more than 50 regional work sites, and every student strengthens their job skills by participating in career development workshops, including resume writing, networking and mock interviews.
- We are committed to making a Mitchell education affordable: 95% of our degree-seeking students receive need- or merit-based financial aid.
But what really makes us special?
Our people. We value and celebrate the meaning of community and interconnectedness. The close collaboration among our trustees, students, faculty and staff to persist, grow, and boldy move forward make united in purpose.
As Mitchell Mariners, we unite in many ways. Cheering on our Division III champion athletic teams. Being moved in word and song by the Mitchell College Players and Mitchell College Select Chorus. Picnicking on our beautiful beach. Serving the vibrant and diverse New London community and engaging with our many partners in Southeastern Connecticut.
I hope to see you soon on campus. In the meantime, please reach out to me to say hello or connect with me on social media.
Instagram: @presidentespy8
Twitter: @EspyPresident
Sincerely,
Tracy Y. Espy, Ph.D.
Dr. Espy Biography
Dr. Tracy Y. Espy became the eighth president of Mitchell College in July 2020, becoming the first African American woman to hold the position. She brings more than 30 years of experience in higher education and servant leadership. Drawn to Mitchell College’s unique and powerful mission, President Espy is dedicated to providing access to quality higher education, increasing opportunities for a diverse student population, and meeting the workforce and service needs of the great city of New London and state of Connecticut.
President Espy has led the College in the development and implementation of a new strategic plan, Illuminating Mitchell College’s Future: A Bold Plan for a Kaleidoscope of Learners. The plan focuses on growth through continuous improvement to meet the learning needs of all students, including neurodivergent individuals and adult learners. Fostering a culture of service and community engagement for faculty, staff, and students alike, she has strengthened the College’s roots and increased its visibility and value both locally and regionally. In doing so she has expanded the College’s community partnerships throughout the state. Under her leadership the College received its largest-ever gift.
President Espy has led the development of many new programs to serve both traditional and nontraditional students and address the region’s most pressing workforce needs. Most recent is the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program, which features the state-of-the-art Edward and Mary Lord Nursing Simulation and Skills Laboratory. Other programs created during her tenure include The Mitchell Hub for Digital Innovation & Educational Excellence, with a unique combination of online learning and in-person support for individuals and corporate groups seeking career skills and credentials. Other recent programs include Professional Studies, offering streamlined and supported degree completion to adult learners, and the post-graduate STAIRs program for neurodivergent individuals seeking support toward career, graduate school, and independent living.
Serving on the Governor’s Workforce Council and the Southeast Region Enterprise Region (seCTer) Board, President Espy works to address the workforce and economic development needs of the state and region. She is a member of the Executive Committee of the Connecticut Council for Independent Colleges and the National Association of Independent Colleges and Universities, serving on the Student Aid Committee.
President Espy received her Ph.D. from Syracuse University, her master’s degree from Miami University of Ohio, and her bachelor’s degree from Berea College.
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Board of Trustees
Mark Alberti, M.B.A.
Helene Banks, J.D.
Patrick J. Caulfield
Shannon Christian
Kevin Coleman, J.D. ’18
Richard D’Avino, J.D.
Chairperson
Nancy Dolan ’74
Secretary
Tracy Y. Espy, Ph.D.
President of Mitchell College
Jason Guyot ’03
Yulanda Harris, Ed.D.
Andy Koha
Walter Kuhn, M.B.A.
Michael O’Connor
Vice Chairperson
Anne Bingham Pierson, M.D.
Honorary Trustee
Barbara Pratt, M.B.A.
Charles Pratt
Thomas Ruffing, M.E., M.B.A.
Treasurer
David Sandberg, M.B.A.
Norman Solomon
Moish Tov
George White, D.Arts
Cornell Yarbrough ’01
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Contact
Office of the President
Kristen Pisani
Executive Assistant to the President
& Board Administrator
Mitchell Hall, Main Floor
860-701-5027
pisani_k@mitchell.edu