Previous Presidents

President Mary K. Grant, MCLA's first alumna president, led a transformative era of growth, innovation, and national recognition. Under her leadership, the College expanded academic programs and facilities, increased opportunities for research, internships, and study away experiences, strengthened its faculty, and enhanced MCLA's presence in the arts and culture of downtown North Adams. She also launched the College's first capital campaign, which exceeded its $30 million goal, and championed STEM education initiatives that secured significant funding for the Feigenbaum Center for Science and Innovation and the renovation of Bowman Hall. Her vision extended beyond campus through the creation of The Berkshire Compact, a regional partnership focused on expanding educational access and opportunity throughout Berkshire County.

During President Aceto's tenure, MCLA experienced significant growth and transformation. His leadership guided the development of a strategic plan, the expansion and revitalization of academic programs, the creation of a multimedia laboratory and classroom, and the launch of the First Year Seminar program. A defining milestone came when Governor Paul Cellucci signed legislation renaming the institution from North Adams State College to Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts, reinforcing MCLA's mission as the Commonwealth's public liberal arts college and expanding opportunities for students seeking a high-quality liberal arts education.

President Tisinger made history as the first woman to lead a four-year public college in Massachusetts. During her tenure, she strengthened educational opportunities through collaborative partnerships with Williams College, Berkshire Community College, and Greenfield Community College. A respected leader in higher education, she was later recognized by the College of Wooster Alumni Association with its highest honor for alumni achievement in American education.

President Haas led North Adams State College through a period of institutional strength and community engagement. During his tenure, the College earned full reaccreditation from the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC) and established the Cultural Affairs Council. A strong advocate for public higher education, President Haas was widely respected for his leadership, community involvement, and commitment to strengthening academic standards across Massachusetts' public colleges and universities.

President Amsler oversaw a decade of remarkable growth and transformation at North Adams State College. During his tenure, enrollment more than tripled, faculty and staff expanded significantly, and major campus facilities—including the Campus Center, Berkshire Towers, the Townhouses, and the Center for Resourceful Living—were added. His administration also introduced new academic programs in Business Administration and Medical Technology and established the North Adams State College Foundation to strengthen private-sector support and advance the College's future.

President Flagg brought a deep understanding of North Adams State College to the presidency, having previously served as a professor, Dean of Admissions, and Dean of Men. His leadership helped guide the institution's transition toward a liberal arts model, aligning the College with the evolving vision of the State College Board of Trustees. During his tenure, the campus expanded significantly with the completion of Hoosac Hall, construction of key facilities including the power plant and Bowman-Eldridge Freel complex, and the acquisition of the Mark Hopkins Training School, further strengthening the College's physical footprint and future growth.

President Freel guided North Adams State Teachers College through a transformative period of growth and academic expansion. During his tenure, the institution evolved into a full-fledged State College, broadening its academic offerings to include bachelor's and master's degree programs across multiple disciplines. Under his leadership, the College introduced the state's first medical technology program and expanded its campus with major construction projects, including Venable Hall, Hoosac Hall, and the Freel Library, of which was later named for the president.. His vision helped lay the foundation for the modern institution and its continued commitment to academic excellence. 

President Bowman was a highly respected educator whose commitment to teacher preparation earned him a reputation as a "teacher's teacher." Drawing on his experience as superintendent of the North Adams Public Schools, he strengthened the College's academic reputation and elevated its standards. Under his leadership, North Adams State Teachers College became one of the few teacher-training institutions in the region to earn accreditation from the New England Association of Schools and Colleges, a milestone that underscored the quality and excellence of its programs.

President Eldridge provided steady leadership during a pivotal chapter in the institution's history. A former faculty member and dedicated advocate for higher education, he guided North Adams Normal School through its transformation into a four-year degree-granting college, expanding opportunities for students and strengthening the institution's academic mission. His lasting impact on the College is reflected in Eldridge Hall, the administration building that bears his name and stands as a tribute to his vision and leadership.

Principal Leon Smith served as both faculty and administrator at the Normal School of North Adams. He held the position of instructor of science, and also taught a range of courses. Under his tenure, Principal Smith provided a more comprehensive training, inaugurated summer sessions, strengthened courses and ushered the school toward being a degree-granting institution, which it became in 1932 as the North Adams State Teachers College. Smith House was first named for the president in 1967, and later rededicated in 1985.

Principal Murdock served as the first principal of the North Adams Normal School from 1896 to 1921. Principal Murdock was regarded as an ardent leader in the development of public education in Massachusetts. Under Murdock's leadership, the North Adams Normal School became very selective, making it an honor to be admitted. Murdock Hall is named after Principal Murdock.