Washington College Names Dr. Bryan Matthews ’75 as 32nd President

Stability, Student Success, and Innovation Top Matthews’ Immediate Goals for the Historic College

The Washington College Board of Visitors and Governors recently announced the official appointment of Dr. Bryan Matthews ’75 M’86 P’12, as the 32nd President of Washington College. Following a highly successful 10-month tenure as Interim President, the Board unanimously approved a three-year contract that extends Matthews’ leadership through June 2029, effective immediately. 

The announcement comes at a pivotal moment for the historic institution as it prepares to celebrate its 243rd Commencement this Sunday, with former Maryland Governor Larry Hogan giving the keynote address. 

Matthews’ interim tenure has been defined by significant institutional momentum and a focus on future-ready initiatives. Most notably, he oversaw the historic groundbreaking of the Warehime School of Business, which will integrate ethical leadership with the liberal arts. Under his watch, the College also advanced the Washington College Innovation Plant, a progressive makerspace and entrepreneurship hub designed to foster workforce development and community partnerships.  

“President Matthews has demonstrated thoughtful leadership, transparency, and an unwavering commitment to the mission of Washington College,” said Richard T. “Rick” Wheeler ’86, Chairman of the Board of Visitors and Governors. “We have seen meaningful progress across key institutional priorities and a renewed sense of energy and confidence among our stakeholders. Dr. Matthews is uniquely positioned to lead the College into our next chapter of long-term strength and sustainability.” 

A Vision for Stability and Growth 

With his permanent appointment, President Matthews has outlined a strategic vision focused on elevating the College’s national profile while deepening its roots in the Chestertown and Kent County communities. His primary goals for the 2024-2029 term include: 

• Institutional Sustainability: Implementing long-term financial and administrative strategies to ensure Washington College remains a premier liberal arts destination for the next generation. 

• Student Success & Outcomes: Prioritizing curricular innovation and experiential learning to improve student retention and ensure graduates are prepared for high-impact careers and civic leadership. 

• Community Integration: Strengthening the vital partnership between the College and the Eastern Shore, leveraging his deep ties to the region to amplify the positive economic and cultural impact of the campus. 

• Enrollment and Marketing Momentum: Building upon recent advancements in recruitment to grow the student body and share the unique story of Washington College’s 244-year legacy with a broader audience. 

"Washington College is and has been central to my life for over 50 years,” said President Matthews. “I am grateful to the Board for their continued support and appreciate the work and dedication our faculty, staff, and students have demonstrated over the past ten months. We have significant work ahead, in a tough marketplace. But each day, our Washington College community becomes better and better at meeting challenges and taking advantage of many new opportunities. I know we will make significant progress over the next several years.” 

A 1975 graduate of the College and a former captain of the lacrosse team, Matthews brings over 25 years of experience at Washington College to the presidency, having served as the College’s Director of Athletics, Assistant to the President for Special Projects, and Interim Vice President and Dean of Students in the past. He holds a B.A. in Political Science and an M.A. in Psychology from Washington College. Matthews earned his Ed.D. in Educational Leadership & Innovation from Wilmington University.  

A longtime leader in the Chestertown community, he served as vice president of KRM Development Corporation and most recently as director of community & government relations for the Dixon Group. He has also served Kent County through volunteer work, previously serving as president of the Kent County Chamber of Commerce and currently on the boards for the Mid Shore Community Foundation and Kent County Character Counts.