Olney, IL – Illinois Eastern Community Colleges (IECC) announces that Dr. Matt Fowler, President of Wabash Valley College and IECC Vice Chancellor of Student Affairs, has formally notified the Board of Trustees of his intent to retire and not to seek renewal of his current contract, which expires on June 30, 2027.
Dr. Fowler’s career with IECC spans more than 25 years, beginning in 1999 as a faculty member. Over that time, he has served in a variety of roles, including Dean of Instruction and, since 2007, President of Wabash Valley College. His tenure reflects a long-standing commitment to student success, institutional stability, and service to the communities of southeastern Illinois.
“Serving this institution and the district has been one of the greatest honors of my professional life,” said Dr. Fowler. “I have been fortunate to work alongside exceptionally talented faculty, staff, and administrators who bring both expertise and passion to their work every day.”
Dr. Fowler also reflected on his experience working with district leadership and the Board of Trustees.
“Throughout my tenure, I have appreciated the opportunity to work with district leadership and the Board in support of our shared mission,” he said. “The collaboration, support, and collective focus on students have strengthened our colleges and the communities we serve.”
In addition, Dr. Fowler noted the value of collaboration with colleagues across the IECC system.
“The shared leadership, collective problem-solving, and mutual support among my colleagues across the district have provided invaluable perspective and strengthened our institutions as a whole,” he said.
IECC Chancellor Ryan Gower, Ph.D., expressed appreciation for Dr. Fowler’s leadership and long-term service.
“Matt has provided steady, experienced leadership at Wabash Valley College for nearly two decades,” said Dr. Gower. “He understands the work at a very deep level, and I am grateful for the opportunity to work alongside him. He has been a strong leader for Wabash Valley College and played an important role at the district level as our first Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs, helping to establish and shape that division.”
As part of this transition, IECC has named Cassandra Goldman, current Dean of Students, as Vice Chancellor of Student Affairs and President-Designate for Wabash Valley College. Goldman will begin working alongside Dr. Fowler on July 1, 2026 in this new role, providing a unique opportunity for continuity in leadership and a deliberate, hands-on transition.
Goldman brings a combination of public service and higher education leadership to the role. She previously served as the elected Wabash County State’s Attorney, where she led complex legal operations and worked closely with law enforcement, the courts, and the broader community.
Since joining IECC, Goldman has served in progressively responsible leadership roles. She began as Director of the International Program, where the program experienced significant growth and development under her leadership. She was later promoted to Dean of Students, where she serves as the division’s second-in-command and oversees key student support areas including the Learning Commons, Campus Advocacy Center, and College and Career Center.
In her current role, Goldman manages a wide range of student-facing operations, including complex student matters, housing-related issues, and day-to-day campus concerns.
“Cassandra has demonstrated strong leadership and a deep commitment to our students and our mission,” said Dr. Gower. “This time of transition allows her to work side-by-side with Matt, learning the full scope of campus operations and leadership responsibilities. That kind of continuity is rare, and it positions Wabash Valley College and our Student Affairs division for continued success.”
Goldman expressed appreciation for the opportunity and the transition ahead.
"I am truly honored by the trust placed in me by the Board and the Chancellor, and I am excited for what lies ahead. This opportunity is especially meaningful to me because of my personal connection to Wabash Valley College. As a graduate of WVC, I have experienced firsthand the impact this institution can have on students and families. That connection makes this role deeply personal, and it strengthens my commitment to serving our students and the broader community. WVC has a proud history, and I look forward to helping carry that legacy forward while continuing to support student success at every level."
Dr. Fowler will continue in his current role during the transition period, ensuring stability and continuity as IECC prepares for the next chapter of leadership at Wabash Valley College.