AFIT Welcomes Dr. Colleen Simpson, President of Front Range Community College

AFIT is pleased to welcome Dr. Colleen Simpson, President of Front Range Community College (FRCC) in Colorado, as our newest member! 

Dr. Simpson became the ninth president of Front Range Community College in August 2022, bringing extensive experience in student success, enrollment, workforce development, and higher education leadership. Prior to joining FRCC, she served as Vice President of Student Services and Regional Learning Centers at Northeast Wisconsin Technical College.  

Under Dr. Simpson’s leadership, FRCC is embracing an ambitious vision for the future of community colleges. The college’s Forward, Together strategic plan focuses on student success, workforce innovation, organizational excellence, and transformational partnerships. Dr. Simpson has championed efforts to blur the traditional lines between high school, college, and the workforce through expanded dual enrollment, strengthened transfer pathways, applied bachelor’s degrees, and partnerships with employers and universities. 

FRCC is Colorado's largest community college, serving approximately 32,000 students across three campuses and offering associate degrees, bachelor's degrees, and short-term certificates. The college is developing a new permanent urban campus in downtown Longmont as part of Phase II of its Urban Innovation Campus. 

FRCC is deeply engaged in Colorado's emerging quantum economy as a key partner in the Elevate Quantum coalition. These programs include an Optics, Quantum & Laser Technology AAS degree and a Vacuum and Cryogenic Technician Training Program designed to prepare students for high-tech careers in the quantum sector. 

Dr. Simpson brings a unique perspective to her leadership, drawing on her Caribbean heritage and a deep commitment to expanding educational opportunities. She is the first Black woman to lead Front Range Community College in its 60-year history. Her leadership reflects a strong belief that community colleges can serve as powerful engines of economic mobility, workforce development, and community transformation. 

We are excited to welcome Dr. Colleen Simpson and Front Range Community College to AFIT and look forward to learning from her leadership, sharing ideas, and strengthening connections across our community of innovative higher education leaders. 

Welcome to AFIT, Dr. Simpson!