As the newly elected president of Elizabethtown College, Betty Rider is focused on one word: relationships. "I have learned that an important part of being a successful leader is developing new and building upon existing relationships," she said. Having worked in various positions at the college for more than 30 years, Rider has already created strong relationships with the faculty, staff and students.

Rider was named transitional president of the college in January before being formally announced as the 16th president of the school in November. She came to Elizabethtown College as a psychology professor before transitioning into administrative roles, including registrar, provost and senior vice president for academic affairs.

Rider said that it's been easy to build the solid relationships she's relying on, crediting the supportive campus community and noting that everyone at the school takes its motto - Educate for Service - to heart. "Because of this entrenched mission, we create relationships beyond our campus and make deep impacts on the greater community," she commented. "We will work to transform and elevate our college's greatest assets and build a strong sense of belonging for all." She noted that she is also focused on continuing to grow enrollment, offer high-demand academic programs and promote a diverse and equitable environment.

She said one of the biggest challenges she's facing in her new role has been an ongoing one since 2020. "We are very much still rebounding from and dealing with the ramifications presented by the COVID-19 global pandemic," she stated. "We are committed to helping our students, particularly those students who were in high school at that time and may need additional support and guidance."

When she's not at work, Rider enjoys getting out for walks with her two dogs. "I also have a son who works and lives in Seattle, and I try to visit him as much as I can get out to the West Coast," she said.

As she settles into her role as head of the college, Rider said she'll continue to put a premium on relationships. "Relationships create a collaborative and innovative environment to reach and exceed goals," she remarked.