Antioch University President in Top 25 Women in Higher Education

SEATTLE, May 2, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Antioch University Seattle President Dr. Cassandra Manuelito-Kerkvliet has been nationally recognized in the March issue of Diverse Issues in Higher Education as one of America's Top 25 Women in Higher Education.  

In honor of Women's History Month, Diverse published its second annual report recognizing the contributions of women to higher education. The magazine identifies 25 women, including former Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice, who stand out for their ability to forge solutions to the unprecedented challenges facing the nation's higher education community. 

"I am honored to be included with this elite group of my colleagues who, through their commitment, intelligence and passion, improve the lives of many," said Dr. Dr. Manuelito-Kerkvliet.

Antioch University celebrates Dr. Manuelito-Kerkvliet's dedicated service as the first Native American woman President at an accredited university outside the tribal college system. During her tenure at Antioch University Seattle, new scholarships were established, including the Richard Norris Native American Scholarship and the AUS Board of Trustees Scholarship. New innovative programs include the Institute of War Stress Injuries and Social Justice, Drama Therapy, and Center for Teaching and Learning. In alignment with Antioch's commitment and leadership in sustainability, Dr. Manuelito-Kerkvliet signed the American College and University President's Climate Commitment in 2008 and committed all construction and building renovations to be LEED Silver.

Prior to coming to Antioch University Seattle, Dr. Manuelito-Kerkvliet worked in a variety of student services and counseling positions at the University of Oregon, University of New Mexico, New Mexico State University, University of Wyoming and Montana State University. She serves on the Seattle Community Colleges Chancellor's Advisory Council. She is a member of the executive board of Washington State Campus Compact and the Board of Directors of the Higher Education Resource Services and the Washington Women's Foundation.

Dr. Manuelito-Kerkvliet is the living example of her great, great grandfather, Chief Manuelito's teaching: "Education is the ladder to success. Tell my grandchildren to climb that ladder."

You can read more about Dr. Manuelito-Kerkvliet and the other honorees at Diverse's website, www.diverseeducation.com.

If you'd like more information about this topic, please contact Sarah Guthrie at 206-286-4132 or [email protected] or contact Dan Klusman at 206-714-7473 or [email protected].

About Antioch University
Inspired by the work of pioneering educator Horace Mann, Antioch University provides learner-centered education to empower students with the knowledge and skills to lead meaningful lives and to advance social, economic, and environmental justice. With campuses in Seattle, Keene, New Hampshire, Los Angeles, Santa Barbara, and Yellow Springs, Ohio, Antioch University is a bold and enduring source of innovation in higher education. The University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association. www.AntiochSeattle.edu

SOURCE Antioch University