SPSCC leader selected for an Aspen Rising Presidents Fellowship

Tysha Tolefree, Vice President for Finance and Operations at South Puget Sound Community College, was selected for an Aspen Rising Presidents Fellowship at the Aspen Institute.

Tolefree was one of 40 individuals chosen from a list of more than 1,200 applicants, Tolefree will learn ways to lead the college to higher levels of student success, South Puget Sound Community College said in announcing the fellowship.

“I am deeply honored and grateful to be selected as part of the Aspen Rising Presidents Fellowship cohort,” said Tolefree in a statement.

“It is a privilege to join such a distinguished group of leaders from across the nation, committed to transforming student success in higher education. I’m excited to engage in thoughtful dialogue, exchange ideas, and collaborate with peers who are as passionate as I am about advancing equity and opportunity.” 

Tolefree said she is looking forward to developing “data informed strategies” and to shape innovative pathways to change lives.  

“What excites me most is the chance to work alongside forward-thinking peers to develop actionable, data-informed strategies that reflect and respond to lived experiences,” Tolefree said.

“Even more important is a shift from philosophical discussions to practical solutions — solutions that remove barriers and expand our understanding of what student success can truly look like for all students, both in college and beyond.” 

A goal of the Rising Presidents Fellowship is to help create new collegiate leaders, as sitting community college presidents retire. The fellows will work closely with community college presidents to examine communities, assess student outcomes and create visions for students.  

Josh Wyer, Executive Director of the College Excellence Program for the Aspen Institute, said “excellent colleges” have some common ground, including presidents who focus on large scale reforms and next steps for graduates.  

 “This cohort of fellows is clearly committed to advancing student success and has the talent to lead transformational reforms. We are really looking forward to our year with them in the fellowship and bringing their talents into our alumni network,” Wyer said.  

The Aspen Rising Presidents Fellowship is made possible by the support of the Burton Family Foundation, Charles and Lynn Schusterman Family Philanthropies, College Futures Foundation and the Mellon Foundation.