“This was a difficult and emotional decision for me — serving in this role over the past six-plus years has truly been the privilege of my life,” Olian said. “Timing for such decisions is never ideal — there is always more to do, plans that are not yet completed. However, Quinnipiac’s upward momentum is heartening, and I have every confidence in the institution’s continued successes.”

Olian, who joined Quinnipiac in 2018, is committed to "sprinting to the finish line" as she continues to uphold and drive forward the university's strategic plan, "The University of the Future."

“I plan on a full and busy year ahead, pushing our plans through to completion,” she said. “We have much to accomplish, and I am dedicated to ensuring Quinnipiac is in the strongest possible position as we transition to my successor.”

As Quinnipiac’s ninth president, Olian’s tenure has been marked by a series of significant achievements, including steering the university through the unprecedented challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, launching a large number of market-facing innovative degree and certificate programs, construction of the impressive Recreation and Wellness Center, and developing the South Quad, which features The Grove — the recently opened 415-bed residence hall, a new School of Business building, and The SITE (Science, Innovation, Technology and Exploration), a student-centered academic building designed to promote research and interdisciplinary learning. The new academic buildings are set to open in May 2025. Under Olian, the university surpassed enrollment goals, and has been recognized by Zippia for five years in a row as the No. 1 university for employment success 10 years out.

With Olian’s leadership, Quinnipiac placed an emphasis on civic engagement, strengthening its collaborations with surrounding communities and actively supporting their well-being. The university also established programs and initiatives that expanded inclusive excellence in many forms across the university.

During her tenure, deep and wide corporate partnerships were created, including the expansive partnership with Hartford HealthCare to address long-term talent needs in the state of Connecticut and beyond. The university’s many corporate partners have impacted faculty research and teaching opportunities, student learning and immersions, and the range of services Quinnipiac delivers.

 “Judy Olian’s leadership has been transformative,” said Chuck Saia, chair of Quinnipiac’s Board of Trustees. “Her vision and dedication have propelled Quinnipiac to new heights, and her impact will be felt for many years. She attracted outstanding leaders to the university who will continue the exciting momentum, and established lasting connections with donors and alumni. As we begin a national search for the university’s next president, we are confident that we will find a leader who can build on the strong foundation Judy has established.”

Olian’s tenure at Quinnipiac caps a distinguished career in higher education. She currently chairs the Division I Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference, is a member of the board of the Knight Commission on Collegiate Athletics, and cochairs AdvanceCT. Prior to joining Quinnipiac, she held leadership positions at UCLA, Penn State and the University of Maryland, and chaired AACSB, the leading accrediting organization for global business schools.

Olian has also been a prominent voice in academia, publishing widely on topics of leadership, management and the future of work. Olian has had an impact outside of higher education as well, serving on the corporate boards of Ares Management, United Therapeutics and Mattel. She has also mentored many leaders outside Quinnipiac and across the higher education community. Her future plans include continued service on nonprofit and corporate boards, and involvement in the Bobcat family.

Olian’s legacy at Quinnipiac will be defined by her unwavering commitment to academic excellence, innovation and inclusivity. The national search for Olian’s successor will be conducted over the coming months, led by the university’s Board of Trustees.