CHICAGO () — Columbia College Chicago’s new president and CEO is stepping into the spotlight at a pivotal moment for the downtown arts and media school.
Dr. Shantay Bolton began leading the college in July 2025 and was officially installed in the position in March.
Her arrival marks a milestone in Columbia College Chicago’s history. Bolton is the first woman to lead the institution in 90 years and the first woman of color ever to hold the top job at the school, which is known for its focus on arts, media and communications.
But the historic appointment comes with significant pressure. The college is working through a $40 million deficit, enrollment has dropped to roughly 4,000 students, and the campus has already seen multiple rounds of job cuts.
In January, Columbia College Chicago eliminated 23 full-time faculty positions.
“I’ve walked into a circumstance where our finances were not as strong and so we know this is not something that’s gonna change overnight,” Bolton said. “We’re engaging in the decision making that will help us to be more stable in the long term. Anytime there’s changes, it’s tough but we’re committed to doing it and doing it in a way that’s disciplined, focused and with surgical precision.”
Bolton said strengthening enrollment will also be a major priority, and she believes the college must do a better job of boldly telling its own story to prospective students and the broader creative community.
“I am really excited about just really amplifying what already exists in the strength of who we are,” Bolton said. “We are the premiere creative media arts institution in the world, right here in Chicago, and I want others to know that and I want us to be proud of that.”
