Gallatin, Tennessee – June 5, 2025 – Volunteer State Community College proudly announces that Dr. Terri Day, Vice President for Academic Affairs, has been appointed the next President of Herkimer County Community College in Herkimer, New York.
Dr. Day, a distinguished higher education leader and proud alumna of Herkimer, will return to her hometown to lead the institution that helped shape the beginning of her academic journey.
In a message to the campus community, Dr. Day reflected on her time at Vol State: “After thoughtful consideration, I have accepted the opportunity to serve as the next President of Herkimer County Community College, my alma mater and a cornerstone of the community where I was raised. It is both an honor and a homecoming, and I am excited to begin this new chapter in my professional journey.”
Dr. Day has served at Volunteer State Community College with distinction, guiding numerous initiatives that have elevated academic quality, student outcomes, and collaborative innovation across the institution.
“While I look forward to what lies ahead,” Day said, “the decision to leave my role as Vice President for Academic Affairs was not made lightly. This community has been far more than a workplace—it has been a source of inspiration, collaboration, and purpose. I am incredibly proud of all we have accomplished together and deeply grateful for the colleagues, faculty, staff, and students who have made this work so meaningful.
“Though this transition is bittersweet, I carry with me the spirit of this institution and the relationships that have shaped my time here. Thank you for the support, the shared vision, and the unwavering dedication to student success.”
Vol State President Dr. Wendi Tostenson shared the following statement: “We are incredibly proud to announce that Dr. Terri Day has been named the next President of Herkimer County Community College in her hometown and at her alma mater. This is a remarkable achievement and a testament to Dr. Day’s leadership, vision, and unwavering commitment to student success. While we will miss her deeply, we are thrilled to see her take on this well-deserved opportunity.
“Dr. Day has made a lasting impact on Vol State through her thoughtful leadership, collaborative spirit, and dedication to academic excellence. Her legacy will continue to guide us as we move forward.”
As Dr. Day steps into her new role, the Vol State community will build upon her legacy.
“To ensure a smooth transition,” Dr. Tostenson said, “Dr. Rich Rhoda will serve as Interim Vice President for Academic Affairs while we conduct a search for the next leader to join our academic team.
President Tostenson notes that Dr. Rhoda brings a wealth of experience in higher education leadership and a strong understanding of Vol State’s mission, which will provide important continuity during this time.
“We remain committed to supporting our faculty, staff, and students, and we are excited for the future of Academic Affairs at Vol State,” Tostenson said. “Please join me in congratulating Dr. Day and wishing her continued success in this exciting new chapter.”
About Volunteer State Community College (Vol State)
Founded in 1971, Vol State is a public, comprehensive community college offering associate degrees, certificates, continuing education, and enrichment programs to a student population that spans eleven counties in Middle Tennessee. With campuses in Gallatin, Livingston, Springfield, and Cookeville, Vol State is committed to providing accessible, high-quality education that empowers individuals to achieve their academic and career goals. Get social with us at volstate, @VolStateTN, volstatecampus,and @volstatecampus.
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