Dr. Damira Grady-Saffold, vice president of Organizational Impact & Culture at Madison College, has been named one of 40 outstanding leaders from across the country for the 2026-27 Aspen Rising Presidents Fellowship.
Grady-Saffold, a higher education executive and national thought partner in student success, organizational strategy, and institutional transformation, was selected from more than 125 applicants and chosen for her potential to enact major reforms that deliver stronger results for students.
“Our research shows that excellent colleges share a common trait: they are led by presidents who focus on a few transformative initiatives that extend beyond enrollment and even completion numbers, centering instead on whether graduates are prepared for transfer and bachelor’s attainment and success in the workforce or further education,” said Josh Wyner, executive director of the Aspen Institute College Excellence Program, in a statement. “I cannot wait to begin working with this impressive set of leaders.”
Fellows are chosen based on their commitment to improving student success and advancing economic mobility, their readiness to lead major student-success reforms, and their potential to become community college presidents within five years of completing the program.
Grady-Saffold leads equity-focused teaching and learning initiatives, workplace culture, international education and community impact at Madison College. A member of the president’s cabinet, she works across academic and student affairs to strengthen student success and advance institutional effectiveness. Grady-Saffold was also named one of Wisconsin’s 32 Most Influential Black Leaders for 2025.
“Dr. Damira Grady-Saffold is an exemplary leader focused on students, equity and institutional excellence,” said Madison College President Dr. Jennifer Berne. “This national recognition reflects her talent and deep commitment to creating transformative opportunities for students, employees and our communities. We are incredibly proud to see her selected for the Aspen Rising Presidents Fellowship.”
