Patricia Okker & Mary Ruiz

New College of Florida

Patricia Okker, Ph.D., became New College of Florida’s president in July. Dr. Okker previously served as the dean of the College of Arts and Science at the University of Missouri. She is also a respected academic, specializing in 19th-century American literature.

According to Mary Ruiz, the CEO of Ruiz Strategic Advisors, and chair of New College’s Board of Trustees, the board unanimously agreed that Dr. Okker was exactly right for this leadership position. 

 “Dr. Okker is a compassionate, capable, proven leader,” Ruiz says. “She rises to the complex challenges of our times and strives for academic excellence with a sense of inclusion and shared purpose. In the years ahead, Dr. Okker will lead New College to even greater accomplishments in higher education and our community.”

Dr. Okker connects her strong attraction to New College with her own student experience at Allegheny College, another small liberal arts institution. “Allegheny transformed my life—and New College is so similar. Being a part of it feels like returning to my roots.”

She is particularly enthusiastic about what makes New College unique. “As a public liberal arts college, it offers an affordable alternative to elite private liberal arts colleges. Equally important is the combination of a customized curriculum that includes robust career education,” she says. “Students at New College are actively involved in addressing the great challenges of our time, and they have incredible opportunities for hands-on learning, including internships and independent research projects, that prepare them for their futures.” 

Dr. Okker says she’s excited about being a part of New College’s future. 

“This exceptional college combines my two great academic passions: affordable public education, and the arts and sciences. Students are demanding changes in higher education across the country. New College can lead that change—because our unique academic model is exactly what they want.”

Patricia Okker, PHD
President
Mary Ruiz
CEO of Ruiz Strategic Advisors
Board of Trustees Chair
New College of Florida
5800 Bay Shore Road
Sarasota, FL 34243
(941) 487-5000
www.ncf.edu