Fleming College and St. Lawrence College are taking another significant step toward their planned merger, appointing a single leader to oversee both institutions ahead of their formal integration next spring.
The colleges’ Boards of Governors announced that Glenn Vollebregt, currently President and CEO of St. Lawrence College, has been appointed Interim President and CEO of Fleming College, effective immediately.
Vollebregt will now lead both institutions as they prepare for their planned integration on April 1, 2027.
The appointment follows an earlier announcement that Vollebregt would become President and CEO of the newly integrated college.
Officials say bringing both colleges under one executive leader will improve coordination and decision-making as integration planning moves into its next phase.
“Bringing the two colleges under unified executive leadership at this stage will strengthen coordination and support timely, accountable decision-making as the integration progresses,” said Karen Jensen, Chair of Fleming College’s Board of Governors.
Jensen says the priority remains supporting students, employees and communities while creating a sustainable institution for the future.
Despite the leadership change, Fleming and St. Lawrence will continue operating as separate institutions until the formal integration.
Both colleges will maintain their existing governance structures, academic responsibilities and commitments to students during the transition.
Over the coming months, officials say work will focus on aligning academic programs, operations and organizational structures.
The colleges also plan to continue engaging students, employees and community partners as they prepare to combine their operations.
Julie Caffin, Chair of St. Lawrence College’s Board of Governors, says unified leadership will help accelerate that work while maintaining academic quality and student experience.
“This next phase is about turning the vision for integration into a strong, sustainable institution,” said Caffin.
Vollebregt says he’s looking forward to bringing together the strengths of both colleges.
“Fleming and St. Lawrence each bring tremendous strengths, proud histories and deep connections to the communities they serve,” he said.
He added that his focus will be on creating an institution capable of supporting students, employers and communities throughout Eastern Ontario.
The appointment also marks a change in leadership responsibilities for Dr. Theresa Knott, who has been serving as Fleming College’s Interim President.
With Vollebregt taking over the interim presidency, Knott will return to her position as Fleming’s Executive Vice President, Academic Experience.
Both boards thanked Knott for her leadership and contributions during the early stages of integration planning.
The colleges say maintaining student services, supporting employees and preserving community relationships will remain priorities as they work toward the April 2027 merger.