The Athens State University Board of Trustees has approved a three-year extension of President Catherine Wehlburg’s contract, ensuring she will remain the university’s leader through May 1, 2030.
The board approved the extension during its July 17 meeting following its annual performance evaluation of Wehlburg.
Board Chairman Sen. Arthur Orr said the decision reflects trustees’ confidence in Wehlburg’s leadership and the university’s direction.
“On behalf of the Board of Trustees, we are excited that Dr. Wehlburg will be remaining with the University through 2030,” Orr said. “She has been a tireless leader and positioned Athens State for greater impact in the years ahead. I truly believe the best is yet to come under Dr. Wehlburg’s leadership.”
Wehlburg became president in 2024 and has overseen several initiatives aimed at expanding opportunities for the university’s adult learners and transfer students.
Among those efforts is the launch of the university’s Career Advantage initiative, which provides greater flexibility for students completing their degrees while emphasizing career readiness and workforce preparation. Her administration has advanced several campus improvement projects, including the completion of the Nazaretian Alumni Welcome Center, renovations to Brown Hall and ongoing work at the Carter Center.
“I am grateful to the Board of Trustees for their confidence and for the opportunity to continue serving Athens State University,” Wehlburg said. “It is a privilege to lead a university that is so deeply committed to helping adult learners and transfer students achieve their educational and career goals.”
Wehlburg noted that the university’s faculty and staff remain focused on helping students complete their degrees while creating new career opportunities.
The contract extension provides leadership continuity as Athens State continues implementing its strategic plan, which includes increasing enrollment, improving student success, promoting innovative teaching and expanding community partnerships across North Alabama.
Founded in 1822, Athens State is Alabama’s oldest institution of higher education and is one of the nation’s few universities dedicated exclusively to degree completion for transfer students and adult learners. The university offers more than 50 undergraduate degree programs, along with graduate programs, designed for students who have already completed at least 36 credit hours.
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