CHARLOTTE, N.C. — The president of Queens University is stepping down after being named president of another school.
Daniel Lugo will take over as the president of Trinity College in Hartford, Connecticut. Lugo has been the president at Queens since July 2019. He will start his new role at Trinity College in June.
Queens University released the following statement regarding Lugo's departure:
"After more than five years of exemplary service as the 21st president of Queens University of Charlotte, Dan Lugo will be stepping down at the end of this academic year to assume the presidency at Trinity College in Hartford, Connecticut. During his time at Queens, President Lugo has provided excellent leadership, guiding the university through significant challenges and achievements. His visionary approach has transformed both the academic and physical landscape of Queens, enhancing the overall student experience. His commitment to accessibility and community engagement was instrumental in launching the Charlotte Talent Initiative, a program designed to empower the next generation of local leaders."
Lugo will succeed Joanne Berger-Sweeney, who is finishing up an 11-year tenure leading Trinity College.
While president of Queens, Lugo helped grow the school's branding and enrollment, which led to a 50% increase in undergraduate applications. He also led a $25 million capital improvement plan on campus and oversaw Queens University's move to Division I competition in sports.
“The search committee was impressed immediately by Dan, who stood out above a highly competitive pool for his track record of accomplishments and for his deep commitment to the value of a liberal arts education and to fostering a sense of belonging on campus,” Lisa Bisaccia, the chair of the Trinity College Board of Trustees, said in a press release. “We particularly noted Dan’s ability to steer institutions toward enduring financial strength while amplifying their brand and deepening campus pride.”
Before his tenure at Queens, Lugo served in leadership roles at Colby, Franklin & Marshall and Carleton, where he graduated with a degree in political science. Lugo earned a graduate law degree from the University of Minnesota Law School.