After nearly eight years at the helm, University of Northern Colorado president Andy Feinstein will step down as the university’s 13th president. His last day is Aug. 1.
Feinstein, who became president in 2018, is credited with leading UNC through a period marked by growth and big changes. During his tenure, UNC eliminated a structural deficit, stabilized enrollment and launched academic and support initiatives aimed at improving student success.
He spearheaded an initiative called the UNC Tuition Promise to cover tuition for low-income students and other initiatives to increase accessibility. He elevated the university’s research ranking and earned the university Hispanic Serving Institution status. Feinstein also coordinated efforts among the presidents and chancellors of Colorado’s public colleges and universities to advocate for the needs of higher education with a unified voice.
'Next chapter'
A major milestone during his tenure was the establishment of the state's first public osteopathic medical college, which will open next fall.
“Part of me is sad to be stepping away at a time when momentum is moving in our favor — enrollment growth, record student outcomes, a new medical college, and progress in research,” Feinstein said. “But it’s also true that presidencies have a life cycle.”
Feinstein, who has spent 26 years in higher education, said that while the university has strong momentum, he felt it was the right time to step away.
“I’m not someone who can do this job halfway,” he said. “I want to make sure I leave UNC at the right time — strong, stable, and positioned for its next chapter.”
Board Chairman Dick Monfort praised Feinstein as a "tremendous advocate" whose vision has positioned the institution for long-term success.
The Board of Trustees expects to announce details about interim leadership and the presidential search process in the coming weeks.
UNC has about 6,500 undergraduate students and more than 2,300 graduate students.
