Trident Technical College appoints vice president of academic affairs

Jennifer L. Cumpston now serves as Trident Technical College’s vice president of academic affairs, transitioning from her role at College of DuPage.

In her new position, she leads academic innovation, student success initiatives and workforce development partnerships, serving the needs of students, employers and the region, according to a news release.

Cumpston most recently served as the dean of science, technology, engineering and mathematics at College of DuPage, an Illinois community college.

“Dr. Cumpston brings an impressive record of academic leadership, innovation and collaboration,” Vicky Wood, president of Trident Technical College, said in the release. “Her commitment to student success, academic excellence and innovative workforce partnerships aligns closely with Trident Technical College’s mission. We look forward to the expertise and vision she will bring as we continue preparing students for meaningful careers and lifelong learning.”

Cumpston has both a Doctor of Education in educational leadership and an MBA from the University of the Cumberlands. She received her Master of Science in geology from Northern Illinois University and a Bachelor of Arts in geography from the University of Illinois.

In her previous position at College of DuPage, Cumpston co-led the Strategic Enrollment Management Committee to help develop the college’s strategic enrollment management plan, and she served on the President’s Council. She also established a college-wide innovation council, directed a $4 million grant to expand aviation education and workforce development, and led an AI literacy initiative with Intel.

“Dr. Cumpston brings an impressive record of academic leadership, innovation and collaboration,” said Vicky Wood, president of Trident Technical College. “Her commitment to student success, academic excellence and innovative workforce partnerships aligns closely with Trident Technical College’s mission. We look forward to the expertise and vision she will bring as we continue preparing students for meaningful careers and lifelong learning.”

Before her career in Illinois, Cumpston was a dean of general studies at Gateway Technical College in Wisconsin, following her role as a chair of physical sciences at Oakton College in Illinois.

Throughout her career, Cumpston has received League for Innovation in the Community College awards, as well as recognition from the American Association for Women in Community Colleges.