Dr. R. Lorraine (Laurie) Bernotsky was unanimously named the 16th president of West Chester University by the Board of Governors of the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education (PASSHE), effective July 1, 2024. As a collaborative and inclusive leader who is centered on student success, Dr. Bernotsky holds nearly three decades of progressive experience in higher education. A longstanding champion for public education and State System students, Dr. Bernotsky is a first-generation college graduate who leads the largest R2 (high research activity) institution within the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education. Prior to being named president, Dr. Bernotsky held the position of interim president of Pennsylvania Western University (PennWest) as a loaned executive from PASSHE’s Office of the Chancellor. Known for being a transformative leader in higher education, Dr. Bernotsky is prepared to help West Chester University chart its path for the future.
A social scientist and mixed methodologist, Dr. Bernotsky earned a master’s and doctorate in politics from the University of Oxford. She also earned a master’s in sociology from Temple University.