Columbia College Welcomes Visionary Leader: Dr. Shantay Bolton Takes Helm as CEO

CHICAGO (WLS) — Columbia College Chicago’s new president and CEO steps into a pivotal moment, facing formidable challenges ahead.

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Dr. Shantay Bolton began her tenure in July 2025, with her official installation occurring in March.

Dr. Bolton’s leadership marks a significant moment for the renowned arts, media, and communications college, as she becomes the first woman to helm the institution in nearly a century and the first woman of color ever to do so.

Yet, the list of pressing issues she faces is extensive. The college is grappling with a $40 million deficit, dwindling enrollment numbers that have sunk to about 4,000 students, and a history of multiple layoffs.

This past January, the college reduced its staff by letting go of 23 full-time faculty members.

“I’ve walked into a circumstance where our finances were not as strong and so we know this is not something that’s gonna change overnight,” Bolton said. “We’re engaging in the decision making that will help us to be more stable in the long term. Anytime there’s changes, it’s tough but we’re committed to doing it and doing it in a way that’s disciplined, focused and with surgical precision.”

Beyond that, Bolton plans to address enrollment issues but promoting the school is a more forceful way.

“I am really excited about just really amplifying what already exists in the strength of who we are,” Bolton said. “We are the premiere creative media arts institution in the world, right here in Chicago, and I want others to know that and I want us to be proud of that.”