Submitted photo Davis & Elkins College President Chris A. Wood, left, signs his five-year contract extension with Dave Cutlip, Chair of the D&E Board of Trustees.

ELKINS — The Davis & Elkins College Board of Trustees, following a unanimous vote, has announced a five-year contract extension for President Chris A. Wood, securing his continued leadership through the 2031 academic year. This marks Wood’s fourth contract since beginning his tenure on Aug. 1, 2016. The Board negotiated the five-year extension well ahead of Wood’s current contract expiration in 2026 to ensure seamless leadership as the College enters its 121st year. The extension is a testament to the Board’s confidence in Wood’s vision and accomplishments for the College.

“It is my honor and privilege to announce the signing of an agreement to extend President Chris A. Wood’s leadership of Davis & Elkins College through the 2030-2031 academic year,” says Dave Cutlip, Chair of the D&E Board of Trustees. He added, “Against a global pandemic, the FAFSA debacle, declining enrollments across the nation, and questions about the value of a college education, President Wood has successfully implemented campaigns that brought new residential construction to campus for the first time in 50 years. He also sought an energized faculty and staff to expand on the mission of the College and enhanced relationships among the greater Elkins community.

Cutlip continued, “We look forward to President Wood’s implementation of the College’s new strategic plan and his guidance over increased enrollment and retention rates, alongside new programs of study that meet the interests of prospective students. Under his leadership, we’ll celebrate 125 years as Davis & Elkins College in 2029 as he continues to guard our heritage of providing a sound liberal arts education in an ever-changing world. The Board of Trustees can think of no better leader for the College in these times.”

During Wood’s tenure at Davis & Elkins College, the institution has achieved many impressive milestones. The “Secure the Future” campaign was successfully completed in 2018, raising $101.4 million. The College is also nearing the completion of its “Creating Home” campaign, having secured 94% of the $25 million goal to create a new “Freshmen Village.” A $7.5 million addition to the Myles Center for the Arts was completed in 2021. Glory Residence Hall, an $18 million project, opened in 2024 with no debt. Numerous new academic programs have been launched during his tenure, including a Bachelor of Science in Nursing established in 2019. The College is also preparing to launch the first master’s program in its history in 2026.

“With deep gratitude to the Board of Trustees, I am honored to sign this contract extension to lead Davis & Elkins College through 2031,” says Wood.

“Over the past nine years, Lisa and I have come to love this unique College that transforms lives,” he added. “The faculty and staff are some of the finest and most dedicated people we have ever met, and the students — from across the state, country, and the world — inspire me daily. While many small private colleges face headwinds, Davis & Elkins is thriving. I truly believe the best days for this institution are ahead. Our journey together continues, and I am grateful.”