MU VP Van Vlerah selected for Council of Independent Colleges' Executive Leadership Academy
North Manchester, IN (06/23/2025) — Manchester University Vice President for Student Life Abby Van Vlerah was selected to participate in the Council of Independent Colleges' Executive Leadership Academy (ELA) in Washington, D.C.
The prestigious program was the first of two in-person seminars and ran from June 16-17. It was led by current and former college presidents along with experts in critical areas pertinent to higher education. The 18 participants were selected from a competitive pool of applicants and represent both independent and state-supported colleges and universities.
The Council of Independent Colleges, the American Association of State Colleges and Universities, and the American Academic Leadership Institute collaborate to offer ELA participants unparalleled learning, mentoring and networking opportunities.
Van Vlerah joined Manchester's staff in 2019 with 18 years of prior experience in higher education. A first-generation student herself, she is passionate about assisting first-generation students by teaching them how to navigate their way through the difficulties of attending university and understands firsthand the challenges that today's students are facing.
She holds a bachelor's degree from Saint Mary's College, a master's degree in American Studies from the University of Wyoming, and a doctorate in American Culture Studies from Bowling Green State University in Ohio.
For the media
Manchester University, in North Manchester and Fort Wayne, Ind., offers vibrant and transformative student experiences. Learn more at www.manchester.edu/about-manchester.
Manchester University respects the infinite worth of every individual and graduates persons of ability and conviction who draw upon their education and faith to lead principled, productive, and compassionate lives that improve the human condition.
Media Attachments
Abby Van Vlerah: front row, third from the right.
Manchester University
Chloe Leckrone, cnleckrone@manchester.eduShare this Story
Recent News
- Manchester University Homecoming and Family Weekend 2026 is Oct. 16-17
- Manchester University announces 2026 Alumni Honor Award recipients
- Manchester University Ratified for NAIA Membership; A Win for Spartan Student-Athletes and Families
- MU alumna, board member receives Distinguished Service Award from Indiana Society of Anesthesiologists
- Manchester University invites prospective students to fall visit days
- MU communication studies professor earns endowed position
- Manchester University becomes Crossroads League's 11th member institution, first new member since 2010
- Manchester University Announces Fall 2026 VIA Lineup
- Manchester University names Elizabeth Marsch executive director of online education
- MU Regional Student Environmental Conference is free to students, educators