Colorado State University Pueblo introduced Rhonda Epper as its new president Monday night at a campus reception that drew faculty, staff and CSU System leaders.
Epper, who officially starts March 23, comes from Trinidad State College, where she served as president since June 2019. The Board of Governors of the Colorado State University System confirmed her as CSU Pueblo’s 17th president in December 2025.
She didn’t waste time with grand pronouncements. Instead, she talked about listening first.
“CSU Pueblo is not just a university, it is a talent engine,” Epper told the crowd. “It is a driver of opportunity for students. It is a driver of economic development, and it is a place that brings and engenders so much pride and represents so much progress for Pueblo and for all of Southern Colorado.”
QUICK FACTS: Dr. Rhonda Epper
- Confirmed: December 2025 by CSU System Board of Governors
- Start Date: March 23, 2026
- Previous Role: President, Trinidad State College (June 2019-2026)
- Position: 17th President of CSU Pueblo
Leadership Experience at Trinidad State College
CSU Chancellor Tony Frank and members of the Board of Governors attended the reception, signaling system-wide support for the choice. They wanted someone who knew Southern Colorado, someone who understood the particular challenges and possibilities here.
At Trinidad State College, Epper led the campus through transformational growth. She oversaw a $45 million capital campaign, guided the college’s renaming, and strengthened regional economic partnerships. She launched the institution’s first bachelor’s degrees and expanded high-demand workforce programs.
Under her leadership, Trinidad State stabilized enrollment and finances post-pandemic and achieved the highest graduation rate gains in Colorado’s community college system.
What Dr. Epper Plans for CSU Pueblo
Epper acknowledged the challenges facing higher education. Colorado faces tight budgets, and she’s realistic about that. But she’s optimistic too, promising transparency and data-driven decisions guided by what’s best for students.
When she takes office in March, her first move will be simple. Listen. Learn what people care about, what works, and what doesn’t. She introduced her husband, Colonel Myland Pride, noting they’re both eager to become part of the Pueblo community.
“I’m genuinely proud to be joining the Wolf Pack,” she said.
About Dr. Rhonda Epper’s Appointment
Who is CSU Pueblo’s 17th president? Dr. Rhonda Epper was confirmed as CSU Pueblo’s 17th president by the Board of Governors of the Colorado State University System in December 2025.
When does Dr. Rhonda Epper start at CSU Pueblo? Dr. Epper officially begins as president on March 23, 2026.
What did Dr. Epper accomplish at Trinidad State College? At Trinidad State College, Dr. Epper launched the institution’s first bachelor’s degrees, led a $45 million capital campaign, achieved Colorado’s highest graduation rate gains in the community college system, and stabilized enrollment and finances post-pandemic.
How long was Dr. Epper president of Trinidad State College? Dr. Rhonda Epper served as president of Trinidad State College since June 2019.
What are Dr. Epper’s priorities for CSU Pueblo? Dr. Epper plans to focus on listening to the campus community, transparent leadership, student success, and strengthening regional economic partnerships.
For more information about CSU Pueblo, visit CSUPueblo.edu. Read about the presidential search process here.
