Mid Michigan College Board of Trustees Appoints Dr. Scott Mertes as Eighth President

The Mid Michigan College Board of Trustees has appointed Dr. Scott Mertes as the eighth president of Mid Michigan College, selecting a leader whose more than two decades of service have helped shape the institution and its commitment to student success.

"Dr. Mertes brings an exceptional combination of institutional knowledge, collaborative leadership, and a genuine commitment to student success," said Board Chair Jane Zdrojewski. "Scott has a vision for the impact that higher education can make in this region. We are confident he is the right leader to guide Mid into its next chapter."

Since joining Mid as Registrar in 2005, Dr. Mertes has served in numerous leadership positions, including roles in Admissions, Student Services, Liberal Arts, Community Outreach & Advancement, Academic Affairs, and Provost. His leadership across the College has given him a unique perspective on the College's mission and the region's diverse needs.

"I am deeply honored to serve as President of Mid Michigan College," said Dr. Mertes. "For more than 20 years, I've had the privilege of working alongside dedicated faculty, staff, students, and community partners who believe in the power of education to change lives. I look forward to building on Mid's strong foundation as we continue creating opportunities for students and strengthening the communities we serve."

Dr. Mertes earned a bachelor's degree from Winona State University, a master's degree from the University of Iowa, and a Ph.D. from the University of Nebraska. Throughout his career, he has been recognized for excellence in leadership, scholarship, and service. He has received numerous state and national honors and has served in leadership roles with higher education organizations, community nonprofits, and regional initiatives focused on advancing student success and strengthening communities.

A frequent presenter at local, state, and national conferences, Dr. Mertes has published extensively on community college student retention. His scholarship has been cited more than 350 times in higher education literature, reflecting his ongoing contributions to the field and his commitment to improving student outcomes.

As president, Dr. Mertes will lead Mid Michigan College in advancing its mission to provide accessible, high-quality education, workforce training, and lifelong learning opportunities that empower students and strengthen the economic vitality of the region.