Mark Kennedy was named 23rd president of the University of Colorado on May 2, 2019, and he officially joined CU on July 1, 2019 from the University of North Dakota, where he served as president for nearly three years. Kennedy's distinguished career included success in business, government and higher education. He was a firm believer in the power of a public research university such as CU to improve lives and have a positive impact at home and around the globe. 

A first-generation college graduate, Kennedy was a staunch advocate for increasing first-generation college graduates while providing educational opportunities for all. His focus at CU included fiscal sustainability, keeping a CU education affordable and accessible, elevating student success and growing CU’s significant research portfolio and economic impact.