FLC campus is closed today, Friday, Feb. 20, due to severe weather. Essential staff report as directed by their supervisor.
Fort Lewis College is a place of promise—for students, for community, and for the enduring value of public liberal arts education. Rooted in place and shaped by relationship, our College opens doors, expands opportunity, and supports students not only academically, but as whole people. Guided by care, accountability, and respect for the land and histories that ground us, we educate in ways that are meaningful, inclusive, and deeply connected to the communities we serve.
The Fort Lewis College Board of Trustees invites you to attend the Investiture Ceremony of Heather J. Shotton, Ph.D. 11th President of Fort Lewis College
Thursday, April 9, 2026 Whalen Gymnasium Ceremony: 1 – 2:15 pm Reception: 2:30 – 3:30 pm
RSVP Today
"As president, I approach this role with humility and purpose, mindful of both its history and its responsibility. Representation matters because leadership shapes who feels seen, who feels welcomed, and who believes they belong. Guided by our strategic plan, my vision is for Fort Lewis College to lead a student-centered institution where belonging is foundational, education is transformative, and graduates are prepared to lead lives of service, meaning, and impact."
About Dr. Shotton
Dr. Shotton is an enrolled citizen of the Wichita & Affiliated Tribes and a descendant of the Kiowa and Cheyenne Tribes. A nationally recognized scholar and higher education leader, she brings a lifelong commitment to Indigenous education, equity, and student success to her presidency at Fort Lewis College.
Prior to her appointment as president, Dr. Shotton served as Vice President of Diversity Affairs and Acting Dean of Student Engagement at Fort Lewis College. Her scholarly work centers on Indigenous education and culturally responsive practices. As Board President of the National Indian Education Association, she led national advocacy efforts to strengthen educational outcomes for Indigenous communities. Her contributions have been recognized with numerous honors, including the Mildred García Senior Scholar Award and Educator of the Year from the NIEA.
At Fort Lewis College, Dr. Shotton has been instrumental in advancing reconciliation efforts that acknowledge the institution’s history as a federal Indian boarding school, positioning the College as a national model for truth‑telling, accountability, and educational equity.
A first‑generation college graduate, Dr. Shotton remains deeply committed to supporting first‑generation students. She earned three degrees from the University of Oklahoma and previously served as Chair of the Department of Educational Leadership & Policy Studies. Known for her relational leadership style, Dr. Shotton is an engaged and visible presence in the life of the College.
President Shotton’s investiture is not only a historic moment for Fort Lewis College—it’s a call to invest in our students and the future they are building.
As we celebrate this new chapter of leadership, we reaffirm our commitment to access, belonging, and opportunity for every student who calls FLC home.
This investiture gives us the chance to deepen our shared responsibility—removing financial barriers, expanding support, and helping more students thrive at Fort Lewis College.
Join us in this collective action today and help empower the leaders of tomorrow.