New CSU Pueblo President Brings Regional Experience to Southern Colorado

The CSU System Board of Governors voted on December 18, 2025 to appoint Dr. Rhonda Epper as the 17th president of Colorado State University Pueblo. The Board and the CSU System release said the appointment followed required public processes and that leaders intend to ensure a smooth leadership transition while maintaining continuity for both campuses. Dr. Epper will assume her new duties on March 23, 2026, after more than six years as president of Trinidad State College.

Local officials and community stakeholders in Las Animas County are watching the transition closely because Trinidad State College serves as a key institutional partner in regional workforce development and economic activity. Dr. Epper leaves a seat at the head of Trinidad State that will require a leadership response, creating a near term administrative vacancy at an institution that plays a role in training local workers and delivering community programs.

The timing of the move gives roughly three months for transition planning between the two campuses. That window matters for program continuity, ongoing grant work, and fall and spring enrollment planning. Leadership changes often reshape priorities for partnerships with local employers, capital projects, and fundraising efforts. For a rural county where higher education anchors can influence local hiring, student spending, and training pipelines, those shifts can have measurable local economic effects.

At the system level, the Board emphasized continuity between institutions, a governance stance that aims to limit disruption to students and regional partners. What to watch next includes announcements about Trinidad State College interim leadership and a permanent search process, any updates from CSU Pueblo on strategic priorities under the incoming president, and specific transition plans that address joint programs and workforce initiatives affecting Las Animas County residents.

The appointment marks a significant leadership change for southern Colorado higher education. With the March 23 start date set, community leaders and employers will be looking for concrete plans that preserve program stability and promote continued collaboration between CSU Pueblo and Trinidad State College.