Member since March 2025
Dr. William (Bill) Ruud is a distinguished higher education leader known for revitalizing campuses in Ohio, Iowa, and Pennsylvania. He currently serves as an advisor for DHR Global, a leading executive search and leadership consulting firm.
Born in North Dakota, Ruud earned a B.S. in Public Administration and Hospital Administration from the University of North Dakota and an MBA and Ph.D. in Organizational Behavior/Management from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. He also served as an Armor and Adjutant General officer in the U.S. Army from 1978-1981.
Ruud was the 19th President of Marietta College (2016-2023), where he prioritized student experience and brand recognition, leading a successful $100 million capital campaign. Previously, as the 10th President of the University of Northern Iowa (2013-2016), he reversed declining enrollment and secured over $50 million in donations. From 2007-2013, as the 15th President of Shippensburg University, he implemented strategic and academic master plans to enhance institutional growth.
His academic career began in 1978, teaching business courses. Over the years, he held various leadership roles at institutions such as the University of Toledo, Boise State University, California State University, Stanislaus, and as Idaho’s Chief Education Policy Advisor (2000-2003). Ruud and his wife, Judy, reside in Eagle, Idaho, with their cockapoo, Fuzzy.
Committee Appointments:
- Executive Committee
- Finance Committee