Dr. Jonathan K. Jefferson Named 18th President of Roxbury Community College

Dr. Jonathan K. Jefferson has been selected as Roxbury Community College’s (RCC’s) next president. Dr. Jefferson, who was unanimously nominated by RCC’s Board of Trustees and approved by the MA Board of Higher Education, brings more than 30 years of experience in strategic planning, academic leadership, consulting expertise, and a dedication to fostering leadership development to the RCC community. 

“RCC’s Trustees are confident that Dr. Jefferson has the leadership, knowledge, skills and determination needed to position RCC for growth and long-term success,” said Sheriff Steven Tompkins, RCC Board of Trustees Chair.  “We look forward to working with Dr. Jefferson, the internal RCC community, and RCC’s vast network of external supporters to ensure that RCC remains a beacon of affordable, quality education.”  

Dr. Jefferson’s professional journey has evolved from technical, consulting, and strategic planning roles to influential academic administration roles. Before joining RCC, Dr. Jefferson served as Chief Academic Officer and Provost at Lesley University, where he played a key role in evolving the landscape of business education and leadership. Dr. Jefferson has also served as Director of the Institute for Leadership at the US Coast Guard Academy, and Dean of the Schools of Business at Clark Atlanta University and Albany State University, where he led initiatives to elevate academic programs, advance faculty development, and enhance student success. As Chair of the Faculty Assembly, he pursued governance and curriculum innovation excellence. 

“I am humbled and honored to join Roxbury Community College as its 18th President,” said Dr. Jonathan K. Jefferson. “I am excited to collaborate with the Board of Trustees, faculty, staff, students, and the broader community to shape this esteemed institution's next chapter of success. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to Interim President Jackie Jenkins-Scott for her exemplary leadership, which has positioned RCC to continue its vision of empowering the community with an education that matters.” 

Dr. Jefferson has also contributed his expertise to various boards and accreditation bodies, such as the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP), the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) and the New England Commission on Higher Education (NECHE). Through these roles, he had the opportunity to impact the quality and reach of business education and institutional excellence. 

Dr. Jefferson will work alongside departing Interim President Jackie Jenkins-Scott to provide a smooth transition. “It has been wonderful leading RCC over the past two and a half years, and I know that Dr. Jefferson will work diligently to ensure RCC’s continued success,” said Jenkins-Scott. “I look forward to working alongside Dr. Jefferson throughout the transition and to supporting the College for years to come.”

Dr. Jefferson holds a bachelor’s degree in mathematics from Morehouse College, a Master of Engineering from Cornell University, a Master of Science from Capella University, and a Doctor of Management from Colorado Technical University.  Dr. Jefferson formally joined the RCC community as president on July 1, 2024.