Celebrating achievements, tackling challenges: SMC President Roger Thompson delivers the State of the College Address. / Photo by Francis Tatem
WATCH: 2026 State of the College Address
“I look forward to looking forward,” says Saint Mary’s President Roger Thompson. There are achievements to celebrate—including accolades from US News, a growth in enrollment, and new programs in Nursing and Aquatics. And there are hills to climb.
On October 21, Saint Mary’s President Roger J. Thompson, EdD delivered his second annual State of the College address to a packed audience in the Soda Activity Center. It was an opportunity to celebrate the people and achievements moving the College forward and, two years into his tenure as president, addressing the challenges that remain.
Highlights include accolades from US News & World Report—which ranks Saint Mary’s as tied for the No. 1 private regional university in the West, No. 3 overall among regional universities in the West, and in the Top 10 schools for Best Value and for Veterans. This academic year also saw an 18% increase in enrollment growth, with the new programs in Nursing and Aquatics drawing more students to SMC. The momentum at the College has also been reflected in a sharp uptick in philanthropic activity to support students and programs.
Looking forward: In 2027, Saint Mary’s will be featured in the Amazon Prime television show The College Tour. Other topics included updates on financial sustainability and preparations for the College’s Centennial in Moraga in 2028.
