Lee College Board of Regents on June 18 named Jacob Atkin as the college’s 11th president, marking a new chapter of leadership focused on growth, innovation, and student success. Atkin assumes the role effective immediately.
Atkin has served as interim president since Feb. 26, 2026, providing steady leadership during a pivotal time for the institution.
Chairman of the Board of Regents Gilbert Santana said the board’s decision reflects Atkin’s proven leadership and clear vision for the future of Lee College.
“Since stepping into the interim president role, Jacob Atkin has demonstrated exceptional leadership, strategic vision, and a deep commitment to Lee College’s mission,” Santana said. “He has successfully navigated complex operational, financial, and strategic challenges while continuing to build strong partnerships across our community. The board is confident that Jacob is the right leader to guide Lee College into its next chapter of growth and opportunity.”
“Lee College has a proud history of serving students and strengthening our community through education,” Atkin said. “I’m honored by the board’s confidence and grateful for the opportunity to serve in this role. I look forward to working alongside our faculty, staff, students, and community partners to build on that legacy and continue moving the college forward.”
A skilled leader in higher education finance and administration, Atkin brings to the role more than two decades of experience advancing institutional effectiveness and supporting student success.
Atkin joined Lee College in 2025 as Chief Financial Officer and Executive Vice President of Finance and Administration, where he provided strategic oversight of the college’s financial operations and administrative services. He is driven by a deep belief that higher education transforms lives and that educators play a vital role in opening pathways to opportunity and a brighter future for students.
Before joining Lee College, Atkin served as Associate Vice Chancellor for Finance at Houston City College further strengthening his leadership in higher education finance and administration.
He also spent 18 years at Utah Valley University in Orem, Utah, where he held several key roles, including Associate Vice President for Finance, Director of Internal Audit, and Manager of Departmental Accounting. His career reflects a strong commitment to fiscal stewardship, transparency, and operational excellence in higher education.
Atkin holds a bachelor of science in Accounting from Utah Valley University and a Master of Science in Taxation from Weber State University. He is also a licensed Certified Public Accountant.
As president, Atkin will lead Lee College as it continues to expand opportunities for students through innovative academic programs, workforce training, and strategic partnerships that support the region’s growing educational and economic needs. Under his leadership, the college will remain focused on student achievement, institutional excellence, and strengthening its impact across the communities it serves.