During an all-staff institutional meeting, Zamorano University marked the conclusion of Dr. Keith L. Andrews’ term as Interim President and formally welcomed Jeff P. Cohen, who will assume the presidency on April 1, 2026.
In his remarks, Dr. Andrews expressed his gratitude for the 261 days, equivalent to eight months, leading the institution, noting that “it is impossible not to feel passion for Zamorano.” He also encouraged the community to continue strengthening a collaborative and supportive environment for both students and staff.
He highlighted key achievements during this period, including significant progress in the doctoral program, which has reached an important milestone. He recognized the contributions of Arie Sanders, Dr. Ana Maier, Alejandro Osorio, and their teams. He also underscored the collective efforts made to enhance institutional processes, including renovations and improvements aimed at strengthening the Learn by Doing model.
Dr. Andrews encouraged the community to maintain—and even accelerate—the current pace of progress, guided by core pillars such as community, coordination, and leadership. As part of this call to action, he emphasized the importance of cross-department collaboration and creating opportunities for shared learning and connection across the institution.
In a symbolic gesture, he invited staff members to actively embrace their role in this new chapter, underscoring that the success of the incoming leadership will be a shared achievement.
As part of the event, Zamorano University awarded Dr. Keith L. Andrews the Wilson Popenoe Medal, the highest distinction conferred by the Office of the President, in recognition of his extraordinary contributions to the institution. This honor reflects a longstanding legacy at Zamorano, from his tenure as president from 1993 to 2002, when he helped establish the university’s modern academic structure and strengthened its international reach; to his recent leadership as Interim President, where he provided stability, vision, and a strong sense of community during a pivotal time for the institution.
For his part, Jeff P. Cohen addressed the community for the first time as incoming president, emphasizing his commitment to listening, understanding, and making decisions collaboratively. “We are in a moment where I continue to deepen my appreciation for Zamorano,” he shared.
Cohen also outlined key elements of the strategic vision being developed in collaboration with the Board of Trustees, looking beyond 2030 and centered on holistic education grounded in the Learning-by-Doing model, as well as institutional sustainability across financial, environmental, cultural, and organizational dimensions.
Cohen also outlined key elements of the strategic vision being developed in collaboration with the Board of Trustees, looking beyond 2030 and centered on holistic education grounded in the Learning-by-Doing model, as well as institutional sustainability across financial, environmental, cultural, and organizational dimensions.
He further highlighted the importance of collaboration, cross-functional understanding, and strengthening a shared sense of community. He encouraged open dialogue and collective problem-solving across the institution.
“We can achieve great things as a family and as a community. Everything we do is for our students,” he concluded.
As a prelude to the meeting, staff participated in a collaborative activity in which they assembled a collective puzzle, writing on each piece what they believe represents the essence of Zamorano University. This symbolic exercise reflected the diversity of perspectives within the institution and reaffirmed that its strength lies in the contribution of every individual who is part of this community.
English 
Spanish