Adrian College President Stepping Down After 20 Years

Board of Trustees to begin search for new college president

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

After serving as President of Adrian College for two decades, Jeffrey R. Docking has been elected to serve as the institution's first Chancellor. The Adrian College Board of Trustees is expected to begin a search for Docking's successor.

Why it matters

Docking's transition to Chancellor marks the end of a long and impactful tenure leading Adrian College. The search for a new president will be a critical moment for the college as it looks to build on Docking's legacy and chart a new strategic vision.

The details

In his new role as Chancellor, Docking will focus on advancing the college's highest strategic priorities and supporting a thoughtful transition to new executive leadership. Board of Trustees Chairman Patrick Farver praised Docking's leadership, saying it has strengthened the institution's academic profile, financial stability, and long-term strategic vision.

  • Docking will assume the role of Chancellor upon the election and appointment of his successor by the Board of Trustees.

The players

Jeffrey R. Docking

The outgoing President of Adrian College who has been elected to serve as the institution's first Chancellor.

Patrick Farver

The Chairman of the Adrian College Board of Trustees.

Adrian College

A private liberal arts college located in Adrian, Michigan.

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What they’re saying

“Through times of uncertainty and transformation in higher education, his leadership has strengthened the institution's academic profile, financial stability, and long-term strategic vision.”

— Patrick Farver, Chairman of the Adrian College Board of Trustees (wlen.com)

What’s next

The Adrian College Board of Trustees is expected to begin a search for Docking's successor as president.

The takeaway

Docking's transition to Chancellor marks the end of a long and impactful tenure leading Adrian College. The search for a new president will be a critical moment for the college as it looks to build on Docking's legacy and chart a new strategic vision.