泡芙短视频

A vision rooted in promise

Fort Lewis College is a place of promise—for students, for community, and for the enduring value of public liberal arts education. Rooted in place and shaped by relationship, our College opens doors, expands opportunity, and supports students not only academically, but as whole people. Guided by care, accountability, and respect for the land and histories that ground us, we educate in ways that are meaningful, inclusive, and deeply connected to the communities we serve.

What is an investiture? 

An investiture is a time-honored academic tradition that formally confers the authority and responsibility of the presidency. Rooted in centuries of higher education practice, the ceremony symbolizes the trust placed in a president by the institution, its governing board, and the broader community. 

At Fort Lewis College, the investiture honors our history, reaffirms our mission, and keeps students at the center of all we do. 

Why this moment matters 

The investiture ceremony marks a significant milestone in the life of the College. It brings together students, faculty, staff, alumni, tribal leaders, elected officials, donors, and community partners to recognize the shared responsibility we hold for Fort Lewis College's future. 

This ceremony affirms the enduring value of public higher education, the importance of relationship and place, and the collective commitment required to ensure opportunity, access, and belonging for generations of students. 
Fort Lewis College academic seal

The Fort Lewis College Board of Trustees invites you to attend the鈥�
Investiture Ceremony of 
Heather J. Shotton, Ph.D.
11th President of Fort Lewis College

Thursday, April 9, 2026
 Whalen Gymnasium鈥�
Ceremony: 1 – 2:15 pm鈥�
Reception: 2:30 – 3:30 pm鈥�

Line art drawing of campus

About Dr. Shotton

Dr. Shotton is an enrolled citizen of the Wichita & Affiliated Tribes and a descendant of the Kiowa and Cheyenne Tribes. A nationally recognized scholar and higher education leader, she brings a lifelong commitment to Indigenous education, equity, and student success to her presidency at Fort Lewis College.

Prior to her appointment as president, Dr. Shotton served as Vice President of Diversity Affairs and Acting Dean of Student Engagement at Fort Lewis College. Her scholarly work centers on Indigenous education and culturally responsive practices. As Board President of the National Indian Education Association, she led national advocacy efforts to strengthen educational outcomes for Indigenous communities. Her contributions have been recognized with numerous honors, including the Mildred García Senior Scholar Award and Educator of the Year from the NIEA.

At Fort Lewis College, Dr. Shotton has been instrumental in advancing reconciliation efforts that acknowledge the institution’s history as a federal Indian boarding school, positioning the College as a national model for truth鈥憈elling, accountability, and educational equity.

A first鈥慻eneration college graduate, Dr. Shotton remains deeply committed to supporting first鈥慻eneration students. She earned three degrees from the University of Oklahoma and previously served as Chair of the Department of Educational Leadership & Policy Studies. Known for her relational leadership style, Dr. Shotton is an engaged and visible presence in the life of the College.

President Heather Shotton, Ph.D.

"As president, I approach this role with humility and purpose, mindful of both its history and its responsibility. Representation matters because leadership shapes who feels seen, who feels welcomed, and who believes they belong. Guided by our strategic plan, my vision is for Fort Lewis College to lead a student-centered institution where belonging is foundational, education is transformative, and graduates are prepared to lead lives of service, meaning, and impact."

Heather Shotton, Ph.D.
President, Fort Lewis College