The Community College of Aurora (CCA) formally recognized former President Dr. Betsy Oudenhoven with the designation of President Emeritus during the college’s commencement ceremony on May 9, 2026.
The honor recognizes Dr. Oudenhoven’s lasting impact on the institution through her leadership, commitment to equity, and transformational investments that continue shaping the future of the college and its students.
Dr. Oudenhoven served as CCA’s fifth president from 2013 to 2021. During her tenure, the institution advanced major equity-centered initiatives, earned Hispanic Serving Institution designation, strengthened workforce diversity efforts, and secured critical investments that positioned the college for long-term sustainability and growth.
Among the most significant milestones during her presidency was the acquisition of the CentreTech campus, a move that strengthened the institution’s financial position and expanded future opportunities for growth and state investment. Her leadership also helped create momentum for what would eventually become the Center for Applied Science and Technology (CAST), now one of the college’s premier workforce-aligned educational facilities.
Dr. Oudenhoven also helped guide the institution through the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, providing steady leadership during one of the most challenging periods in modern higher education history.
Current CCA President Dr. Mordecai Brownlee reflected on the significance of the recognition and the foundation Dr. Oudenhoven helped establish for the institution.
“Dr. Betsy Oudenhoven’s leadership has left an enduring mark on the Community College of Aurora,” said Dr. Brownlee. “Her steady commitment to students, her belief in the power of access and opportunity, and her ability to lead with both clarity and compassion helped shape the foundation upon which we continue to build today.”
Dr. Brownlee presented Dr. Oudenhoven with the President Emeritus designation prior to the commencement ceremony in front of graduates, employees, and community members.
Reflecting on the honor, Dr. Oudenhoven shared her gratitude for the institution and community she served.
“My ten years at CCA were incredibly meaningful for me,” said Dr. Oudenhoven. “Our students were inspiring, our employees were passionate and hard working, and our community was involved and supportive.”
The President Emeritus designation is reserved for leaders whose influence and contributions extend far beyond their time in office. For the Community College of Aurora, recognizing Dr. Betsy Oudenhoven honors a leadership legacy that continues to impact students, employees, and the broader community today.
