PRESS RELEASES

Academic Career & Executive Search (ACES) selected by Richard Bland College for Interim President Search

(October 31, 2025, WEST HARTFORD, CT) Academic Career & Executive Search (ACES), a leading higher education focused executive search firm, has been selected to recruit the next Interim President Search at Richard Bland College. Jennifer Muller, Managing Partner, will be leading the search.

The Interim President will join Virginia’s only selective, public, residential two-year college at a pivotal period of transition. This appointment follows the distinguished tenure of Dr. Debbie L. Sydow, who has led the institution since 2012 through transformational change and a renewed strategic direction, leading the campaign for independent board governance, expanding guaranteed transfer pathways with more than 35 four-year institutions, and bolstering student success through its nationally recognized Guided Pathways for Success (GPS) program.

Reporting directly to the Board of Visitors, the Interim President will serve as chief executive officer, responsible for maintaining institutional momentum and financial stability; engaging key local and state legislators; stewarding strategic priorities; and preparing the College for a successful transition to permanent leadership. The ideal candidate brings deep experience in higher education leadership, proven ability to productively engage with state government stakeholders, a commitment to student success, and the ability to lead with integrity, empathy, and decisiveness. This is a 12-month appointment which includes Presidential housing, a benefits package, and the opportunity to apply for the permanent role.

Founded in 1960 as a branch of the College of William & Mary, Richard Bland College (RBC) was named in honor of the “Father of the Revolution” and Virginia statesman Richard Bland. Over the decades, RBC has grown into Virginia’s only selective, public, residential two-year college, offering students a distinctive bridge between high school and a four-year degree. The College maintains guaranteed transfer agreements with more than 35 four-year colleges and universities, ensuring affordable and streamlined pathways to bachelor’s degree completion. With a mission to provide high-value education, foster student success, and serve as an engine of regional development, RBC combines the intimate learning environment of a small college with the resources and connections of the Commonwealth’s higher education system.

Affordable Excellence

Academic Career & Executive Search, a higher education focused search firm, specializes in affordable excellence, providing perfectly matched candidates to institutions quickly and accurately. Their methodologies, based on frequent touchpoints, pinpoint ideal candidates with speed and meticulous care resulting in highly successful placements.

They offer flexible service/pricing levels for all positions, ensuring affordability. Contact Jennifer Muller, Managing Partner, at 860-740-2600 or Jennifer@ACESrch.com, or visit https://acesrch.com/.