Polly Peterson, PhD

Biography

Dr. Polly Peterson is the President of the University of Jamestown, a distinguished leader in higher education and a dedicated member of the Jamestown community. Her career is marked by a steadfast commitment to academic excellence, institutional growth, and community engagement.

Professional Background and Achievements

Dr. Peterson earned her Bachelor of Arts from the University of Jamestown in 1989, graduating summa cum laude with dual degrees in Accounting and Business Administration. She was also named a College Fellow in both areas of study. In 2000, she completed her Master of Business Administration (MBA) at Regis University. Polly began her professional career in public accounting with EideBailly, before joining the University of Jamestown as Controller and later as a Professor of Accounting. Her leadership trajectory at the University of Jamestown includes serving as Vice President for Institutional Advancement (2006), overseeing development and alumni relations, and then as Executive Vice President (2014), where she managed both Business Affairs and Institutional Advancement.

In 2017, Polly Peterson was named the 14th President of the University of Jamestown—the first woman to hold this role in the University’s history. Under her presidency, Dr. Peterson has led initiatives that expanded academic programs, enhanced campus facilities, increased student enrollment, and strengthened the university’s financial foundation.