Sponsored & Legacy Institutions - Stories

By Sarah Stanley
Executive Director of Marketing and Public Relations
Siena Heights University

September 15, 2025, Adrian, Michigan – The Siena Heights University Board of Trustees, with the support of the General Council of the Adrian Dominican Sisters, is pleased to appoint Dr. Cheri Betz as the 12th president of the University. As the University’s chief executive officer, she oversees all academic and operational functions on its Adrian, Michigan, campus; through its national online educational platform; and in service to incarcerated people in correctional facilities.

“We are grateful to Dr. Douglas Palmer for his service and contributions to Siena Heights University,” stated Harry “Dusty” Steele, Chairman of the Board of Trustees. “The Board of Trustees is fully confident that Dr. Betz, with her experience and deep commitment to the University, will bring meaningful impact across all aspects of the SHU community and beyond.” 

Appointed as Executive Vice President in 2024, Dr. Betz has been a valued leader at Siena Heights for more than 20 years. She brings a wealth of experience from her prior roles as Vice President of Enrollment and Dean of the award-winning online learning program. Dr. Betz has also served as an admission representative, advisor for online students, and assistant professor of leadership.

“I am here to serve,” said Dr. Betz. “The year ahead of us is a critical one in that we uphold our promise of an honorable closure. I will not waiver in my commitment to students, faculty, staff, and alumni to make our final chapter one that honors the legacy of the institution.”

Dr. Betz carries her passion and leadership off campus and into Jackson’s Cotton and Cooper Street Correctional Facilities, where she enjoys teaching a course in Siena Heights University’s Rising Education Program, empowering incarcerated individuals to earn their bachelor’s degrees. She is also an active member of the local community and her church, and above all, is dedicated to her family.

“We are delighted that Dr. Betz has said ‘yes’ to assuming the role of President of Siena Heights University,” said Sister Elise D. García, OP, Prioress of the Adrian Dominican Sisters. “Dr. Betz has a depth and breadth of experience and love of Siena to lead students, faculty, and staff with joy, intelligence, and sensitivity through a very challenging final year that could also be richly rewarding.”

“We are very grateful to Dr. Douglas Palmer for his service as President of Siena Heights University,” Sister Elise added. “We extend – with every good wish – our blessings to him and his cherished family.”

Dr. Betz holds a bachelor’s degree in communication from Olivet Nazarene University, a master’s in organizational leadership from Siena Heights University, and a doctorate in ethical leadership from Olivet Nazarene University. She is a member of the board of trustees for Olivet Nazarene University and a Goodwill Ambassador for Goodwill Industries Southeast Michigan.

Siena Heights University, a Catholic institution founded in 1919 by the Adrian Dominican Sisters, serves a diverse student body of traditional and adult learners following the Dominican intellectual tradition. 
 

Caption for above feature photo: Dr. Cheri Betz