Colorado College Executive and Leadership Team

June, 2026

Leadership Overview

Colorado College has 10 executives leading key functions including operations, finance, and information technology.

Driven by a commitment to innovative education, Colorado College is dedicated to fostering intellectual curiosity and critical thinking through its unique block plan, preparing students for impactful lives and careers.

Leadership Roles at Colorado College

  • Finance Chief Financial Officer & Vice President - Lori Seager
  • President - Manya Whitaker
  • Chief of Staff - Samilja Heim
  • Senior Vice President and Chief of Staff - Mike Edmonds
  • IT Vice President & Chief Information Officer - Steven Gathers
  • Lori Seager - Finance Chief Financial Officer & Vice President

    Lori Seager, the Finance Chief Financial Officer & Vice President at Colorado College, directs the institution's financial strategy and fiscal operations. Seager oversees all financial planning, budgeting, accounting, and investment activities, ensuring the financial health and sustainability of the college. This role is essential in managing resources effectively to support the college's academic programs and operational needs, including the unique demands of the block plan. Leading the finance division, Seager ensures compliance with financial regulations and best practices in higher education. The Finance Chief Financial Officer & Vice President position is critical for sound financial management and strategic resource allocation. Lori Seager's financial acumen guides the college's investment in its educational mission and infrastructure. This position requires meticulous attention to financial detail and a commitment to transparency and accountability. Seager's efforts focus on optimizing financial performance and supporting the college's long-term growth and stability.

    Manya Whitaker - President

    Manya Whitaker, the President at Colorado College, provides visionary leadership and strategic direction for the entire institution. Whitaker guides the college's academic mission, operational management, and external relations, ensuring the continued excellence and innovation of its educational programs. This role is paramount in upholding the college's commitment to its unique block plan and fostering a vibrant academic community. Leading the executive team, Whitaker cultivates a culture of collaboration and academic rigor, driving the college forward. The President position is the highest executive office, responsible for the overall success and reputation of Colorado College. Manya Whitaker's leadership is instrumental in advancing the college's strategic priorities and enhancing its standing in higher education. This position demands comprehensive oversight of all college functions and a deep dedication to student success and faculty development. Whitaker's focus remains on strengthening the college's mission and ensuring its enduring impact.
    Manya Whitaker

    Samilja Heim - Chief of Staff

    Samilja Heim, the Chief of Staff at Colorado College, directs strategic initiatives and operational efficiency across the institution. Heim manages key projects that advance the college's mission, ensuring seamless execution of administrative functions. This role involves close collaboration with senior leadership to align departmental goals with institutional objectives. Overseeing critical cross-functional projects, Heim ensures timely delivery and resource optimization. The Chief of Staff role is pivotal in translating the President's vision into actionable plans, driving progress in academic and administrative spheres. Samilja Heim's leadership supports the college's unique block plan by streamlining support services and enhancing institutional responsiveness. This position requires a deep understanding of higher education operations and a commitment to fostering a collaborative environment. Heim's focus remains on enhancing the overall effectiveness of college operations and supporting strategic growth.

    Mike Edmonds - Senior Vice President and Chief of Staff

    Mike Edmonds, the Senior Vice President and Chief of Staff at Colorado College, spearheads critical institutional strategies and operational oversight. Edmonds directs the implementation of key college-wide initiatives, ensuring alignment with the strategic vision and academic mission. This leadership position involves managing complex projects and fostering collaboration among diverse departments. Overseeing significant operational improvements, Edmonds drives efficiency and effectiveness throughout the college. The Senior Vice President and Chief of Staff role is central to advancing the college's goals, particularly in supporting the unique academic structure of the block plan. Mike Edmonds's expertise is crucial in navigating the complexities of higher education administration, enhancing institutional capacity. This role demands a strategic approach to problem-solving and a commitment to supporting faculty and student success. Edmonds's efforts focus on strengthening the college's operational framework and advancing its long-term objectives.

    Steven Gathers - IT Vice President & Chief Information Officer

    Steven Gathers, the IT Vice President & Chief Information Officer at Colorado College, architects and directs the institution's technology infrastructure and digital strategy. Gathers oversees all aspects of information technology, ensuring robust, secure, and scalable systems that support academic and administrative functions. This role is critical in leveraging technology to enhance the unique educational experience offered by the block plan. Managing the IT department, Gathers ensures the delivery of essential services, from network operations to cybersecurity. The IT Vice President & Chief Information Officer position is fundamental to modernizing college operations and supporting research and learning environments. Steven Gathers's leadership drives innovation in educational technology, providing faculty and students with cutting-edge tools. This position requires a forward-thinking approach to technology adoption and a commitment to data integrity and user support. Gathers's focus is on empowering the college community through reliable and advanced technological solutions.
    Steven Gathers

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Colorado College Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Colorado College?
    Colorado College is led by Lori Seager (Finance Chief Financial Officer & Vice President), along with executives such as Manya Whitaker (President) and Samilja Heim (Chief of Staff).
    Who is part of Colorado College’s executive team?
    The executive team of Colorado College includes leaders such as Lori Seager (Finance Chief Financial Officer & Vice President), Manya Whitaker (President), Samilja Heim (Chief of Staff) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Colorado College have?
    Colorado College has 5 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Colorado College’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Colorado College includes roles such as Finance Chief Financial Officer & Vice President, President, Chief of Staff, Senior Vice President and Chief of Staff, IT Vice President & Chief Information Officer.