New Southwestern Michigan College President Eager to Engage with Community

Klint Pleasant brings extensive higher education experience to his new role at SMC.

Apr. 11, 2026 at 3:00am

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An abstract, impressionistic photograph of students walking across a college campus, with blurred figures and soft, warm lighting creating a sense of energy and community.The new president of Southwestern Michigan College hopes to foster a welcoming, community-focused atmosphere on campus.Three Rivers Today

Klint Pleasant, the newly appointed president of Southwestern Michigan College, is excited to start his new role and get to know the local community. Dr. Pleasant previously served as the senior vice president and special assistant to the president at Rochester Christian University in Michigan. He was hired late last year to replace former SMC President Joe Odenwald, who has moved on to a new job. Pleasant says he was drawn to SMC because of the campus and community feel, and he is eager to listen and learn from his new colleagues before pursuing any major new initiatives.

Why it matters

As a public community college, SMC plays a vital role in providing affordable higher education opportunities to the local region. Pleasant's experience in university administration and his commitment to engaging with the community will be crucial as he works to grow enrollment, maintain sound fiscal management, and solidify SMC's reputation as a degree-granting academic institution.

The details

Pleasant has over 28 years of experience in higher education, having served in various leadership roles at multiple institutions. At Rochester Christian University, he helped oversee strategic planning, departmental management, and the transition from a college to a university. In his new role at SMC, Pleasant plans to focus on listening and learning from his experienced colleagues before implementing any major changes. He recognizes the importance of athletics in creating campus spirit, but emphasizes that academics will remain the core focus of the institution.

  • Klint Pleasant was hired as the new SMC President in late 2025.
  • Pleasant started his new role in April 2026.
  • SMC's 59th Commencement ceremony is scheduled for May 9, 2026.
  • Pleasant will attend the Rotary Club of Dowagiac's 'Family and Friends Night' on April 23, 2026.

The players

Klint Pleasant

The new President of Southwestern Michigan College, with over 28 years of experience in higher education administration.

Joe Odenwald

The former President of Southwestern Michigan College, who has moved on to a new job.

Southwestern Michigan College

A public community college located in Dowagiac, Michigan, serving the local region.

Rochester Christian University

The institution where Klint Pleasant previously served as the senior vice president and special assistant to the president.

David Mathews

The former President of Southwestern Michigan College, who will host Klint Pleasant at the Rotary Club of Dowagiac's 'Family and Friends Night'.

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What they’re saying

“Really what the hook was when I made the visit to campus, I just fell in love with it. I told my wife, I said, it feels right. I think I'm ready for a move like this. All the stars aligned and I could not be more thrilled.”

— Klint Pleasant, President, Southwestern Michigan College

What’s next

Pleasant will be focusing on year-end academic activities, finalizing the next budgets, working with the senior leadership team, and traveling to Lansing this month for Capitol Day as he settles into his new role.

The takeaway

Klint Pleasant's extensive experience in higher education administration and his commitment to engaging with the local community position him well to lead Southwestern Michigan College as it works to grow enrollment, maintain fiscal stability, and solidify its reputation as a degree-granting academic institution.