Get To Know:

Interim President James A. Troha

When he arrived on campus seven years ago, a youthful Jim Troha might have easily blended in as a student. But on July 1, the senior administrator who has served as vice president for Student Affairs and dean of the college – with stints as VP for enrollment and golf coach thrown in for good measure – assumed a new role and new responsibilities as interim president.

And he’s ready for the challenge. “I am honored and humbled to be asked to lead this institution that I have come to know and respect over the last seven years,” he said. “I look forward, with great enthusiasm, to working with the entire campus community to carry forward the initiatives that Dr. Dottavio has set in motion. I indeed have big shoes to fill.”

Jim came to Heidelberg from Baker University in Kansas, where he had been the dean of students. He also spent two years in England, serving as the dean of students at Harlaxton College, an American study-abroad institution affiliated with the University of Evansville. He received his Ph.D. from the University of Kansas and his master’s and bachelor’s degrees from Edinboro University in Pennsylvania.

While he served in the dual role of vice president of enrollment for three years, Heidelberg enrolled its largest freshman class in 15 years during the 2005-06 academic year. Jim also has overseen the athletic department at Heidelberg.