Meet Our Interim Chancellor: Dr. Chad Bolser

In March, Dr. Chad Bolser took over as the interim chancellor of Ivy Tech Indianapolis. Dr. Bolser filled the temporary role following Dr. Stacy Atkinson’s appointment as Provost of the College.

Prior to his commitment, Dr. Bolser served as the Richmond campus chancellor. Dr. Bolser first joined Ivy Tech in 2014 as the president of the Richmond campus. His title transitioned to chancellor in 2017, before he became the vice president of strategic operations for Ivy Tech's southern campuses. In 2022, Dr. Bolser returned to his role as Richmond chancellor. 

Dr. Bolser earned a B.A. in History from Lindenwood College, an M.Ed from Earlham College, and a Ph.D in Industrial and Organizational Psychology from Grand Canyon University. 

To learn more about Dr. Bolser, we asked him to share with us more about his passion for higher education, his leadership philosophy, what he’s grown to like the most about the Indianapolis campus, and more. 

Dr. Bolser, you’ve been serving as the interim chancellor for the Indianapolis campus for about a month now. To start, can you share a bit about your journey to Ivy Tech and what has shaped your career in higher education? 

This is year 12 at Ivy Tech Community College. I have served as a campus president, chancellor, and vice president of operations over those twelve years. I really love the feeling of campus and the energy of the students as they take their own individual journey. We are fortunate to get to do the work that we do, and when we see students, from our K-12 dual credit students, skills training or traditional academic students achieve their educational goals, there is nothing better in education.

You’ve built a strong legacy as the chancellor of the Richmond campus, where you’re known as a passionate advocate. How does that experience inform the way you approach your new role here in Indianapolis? 

I am in this role today in large part because my father, a first-generation student, took a risk and hitchhiked to Illinois State University to try to earn a degree. I could never imagine what courage it took to leave his family and pursue education because he wanted a better life. Then I met our students here at Ivy Tech who overcame so many obstacles to reach for something better through education. That sort of dedication deserves a passionate response, and it is a privilege to work at a place that provides that type of opportunity to so many. 

In your first month, what have you grown to learn and like about the Indianapolis campus? 

The mission of Ivy Tech is so inspiring, and we should not take it for granted. The people I have met at this campus are people who believe in the mission. They believe in the very best for our students, and I know that the work being done on this campus always puts the student first. 

How would you describe your leadership philosophy, especially when stepping into an interim role? 

Make sure you surround yourself with talented people, support them to let them thrive in their role, and most importantly, get out of their way. I have so much to learn about this campus as the interim. I look forward to the process. 

What does success look like for you in this interim role? What do you hope to have accomplished by the time a permanent chancellor is named? 

The most important part of being an interim is ensuring that this period of transition causes as little stress as possible for the campus. Right now, we are in the first year of a new statewide administration, a campus renovation, and an interesting time for higher education in the political landscape. There are many things that can cause stress, and I hope that this transition will be as smooth as possible for everyone. 

Looking at the broader landscape of community colleges, what trends or challenges are you thinking most about? 

The blurring of lines between K-12, two-year, and four-year institutions creates interesting challenges to navigate in the future. Those challenges create opportunities for innovation and creativity in this space. We are well-positioned to be the most effective community college institution in the country because of our reach. This campus is a leader among leaders in that landscape, and although higher education has challenges, we are the most prepared to provide the answers that our community deserves. 

What keeps you motivated and energized, especially when you’re connecting with students, faculty, or staff on campus?

I love the phrase, “the best is yet to come.” Regardless of our current circumstances, I believe in that mindset. Our faculty and staff do such a wonderful job serving our students who may be navigating this landscape for the first time or returning after a difficult educational experience. We owe our students our best version of ourselves every day. WE owe it to everyone in this community to know how proud we are of the work that we do. It motivates me, and my hope is that it motivates everyone who has chosen this as a profession. 

You’re stepping into a role that serves a massive and diverse city. What’s a favorite spot or hidden gem in Indianapolis you’ve discovered—or are looking forward to exploring?

In this temporary time on campus, I decided to live near campus and have the experience of being able to be on the Monon Trail. What a cool place to walk or run and to hang out, seeing what this city has to offer. I love going to Gainbridge to watch basketball games when I can, and seeing all the people coming into this great city to experience a unique Hooser perspective is always fun. 

Beyond work, what’s something you’re really passionate about or enjoy doing? 

I really enjoy history and learning from biographies. I serve on the Indiana Arts Commission, and seeing the arts community is always a thrill, although I have absolutely no artistic ability! I also love basketball, which is not unique in this state, and also not something I can do very well at my age! 

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