Eric Boynton became Beloit’s new president in July 2023, following nearly four years of forward-thinking leadership as the Provost and Dean of the College, the college’s chief academic officer.

President Boynton is an innovator and change expert with more than two decades in higher education and nearly 15 years of leadership experience. He joined Beloit in 2019 from Allegheny College in Pennsylvania, where he chaired the philosophy and religious studies department, directed interdisciplinary and Black studies programs, and founded and directed the honors program.

Shortly after joining Beloit in 2019, Boynton helped the college attract national recognition for its strategic initiatives broadening college-to-career pathways and putting teaching and mentoring first. He worked with faculty and staff to integrate career preparedness into every aspect of students’ liberal arts experiences, including creating Career Channels that help students learn about various career paths while being connected with alumni who share their professional interests.

Known for his energy, bold ideas, and collaborative leadership, Boynton was a critical force in establishing Impact Beloit, the student career hub that will embrace regional community partnerships. Impact Beloit will open in fall 2024 in the college’s Morse Library after a $9 million grant-funded renovation.

Boynton was integral in steering the college through the pandemic, leading the implementation of a proactive, modular course structure and expediting students’ safe return to campus classrooms in the fall of 2020. This work gained national attention, positioning the college among its peers as a leader and doer in higher education. He also was a member of the college’s anti-racist liaison team, which has created a roadmap for equity and inclusion called Becoming Better.

Boynton frequently speaks at national higher education conferences on organizational change, supporting students’ career readiness, and holistic leadership in challenging times. He has co-edited three books and written and presented numerous scholarly papers. Boynton is often featured in the national and statewide media talking about the challenges of higher education, and the opportunities for solutions. He has mentored chief academic officers through the Council of Independent Colleges and is on the Associated Colleges of the Midwest executive board.

A Fulbright Scholar, Boynton holds a Ph.D. in the philosophy of religion from Rice University, a master’s degree in religious studies from Vanderbilt University, and a bachelor’s degree from the University of Redlands.

President Boynton and his wife, Julie, have two children, Jake and Emma, and three dogs, Vivi, Jolene, and Talulah.