Jonathan Stroud

About me: I have a passion for quality higher education and am convinced that students' personal and academic growth is best nurtured at small, academically challenging colleges with a strong sense of community. I am distressed when I hear people describe private higher education as elitist or only for the affluent. This has been far from the truth in both my personal and professional experiences. For example, I was drawn to Cornell because it attracts a socio-economically and geographically diverse, as well as an academically talented, student body.

On a personal note, my family and I love the beautiful and historic Mount Vernon community, located less than a half-hour drive from the numerous cultural and entertainments options found in Cedar Rapids and Iowa City. I look forward to my daily walk to my office, which is only two blocks from my home.

My roots: I am a native of North Carolina who has fallen in love with the Midwest. I received my B.A. from Davidson College and my M.S. from Vanderbilt University. I worked in admission at both of my alma maters and have now served as dean of admission at four nationally distinguished liberal arts colleges, including most prominently and recently my decision to become Cornell College's vice president for enrollment.

One place I recommend students visit on campus: A classroom, of course. Cornell simply has an exceptional teaching faculty who also happen to be wonderful scholars. You will not find a more gifted, creative and hard-working faculty than Cornell's. As a direct result of its One-Course-At-A-Time calendar, Cornell offers a stimulating and flexible learning environment.

Other things you should know about Cornell: Cornell is an incredibly active and caring community that attracts students who view college as more than a simple means to an end. It is designed to offer "one extraordinary opportunity after another, in the classroom, on campus, and in the world" to a vital student body of 1,200.

What I can do for you: My staff and I can help you genuinely explore whether Cornell College might be a good college choice for you. Our responsibility is not just to recruit a certain number of students each year but to enroll students whose interests are a good fit with programs, opportunities, and the quality of life at Cornell. It is a fascinating process to put together an exciting First Year class of diverse talents and interests and of engaging personalities. It serves neither you nor Cornell well if we approach this process in a simplistic bottom-line oriented fashion. We want you to be confident in your decision.