Zimmerman named VP for enrollment

RIPON, Wis. – Kimberly Zimmerman has been appointed as Ripon College’s new vice president for enrollment, bringing over 15 years of experience to her position effective March 3.

Zimmerman currently serves as assistant vice president of admissions at Knox College in Galesburg, Illinois, where she has strategically prioritized regional, transfer and international recruitment, created a comprehensive enrollment plan and has led all areas of the recruitment program, including budget, search and market strategy.

Her strategic implementation led to a 60% increase in first-year enrollment, with the past cycle bringing in the third-largest incoming class in the history of the college.

Zimmerman expressed confidence in Ripon College’s current trajectory, noting that the institution already showcases significant forward momentum and is a strong leader in the Midwest in terms of both educational quality and student experience.

“I plan to capitalize on those strengths and momentum, add strategy and support and ensure we’re putting our best efforts into finding even more well-matched students who will contribute to the wonderful community here,” Zimmerman said.

“I’m excited to welcome Kim to Ripon College and look forward to her unbridled passion and expert knowledge of small private residential liberal arts and science schools in the Midwest,” Ripon College President Victoria N. Folse said. “She will be successful in translating her previous successes into Ripon College-specific initiatives. Kim has fresh ideas, and will leverage existing strengths of our college to take enrollment to the next level in this changing higher education landscape.”

She has previously worked for Illinois Wesleyan University and Saint Xavier University in various admissions roles. She holds a master of arts in leadership studies specializing in higher education from North Central College and a bachelor of arts degree in English-writing from Illinois Wesleyan University.

Zimmerman is actively engaged in higher education as she serves as co-chair of the Illinois Association of College Admission Counseling (IACAC) scholarship committee, as well as recently being appointed as co-chair of the Women in Admission Special Interest Group through the National Association of College Admission Counseling (NACAC).

She currently lives with her husband, two daughters, dog and cat in Galesburg, and plans to relocate to Ripon.

Zimmerman is succeeding Interim Vice President for Enrollment Greg King who has served in that role since October 2024.