HOLLAND (WHTC-AM/FM) — Monday was the day Hope College alum Matt Scogin started his new job, as Hope College’s 14th president. (Listen to the podcast.)
The former president of his Hope College class (2002), he also led his high school student body — but admitted in an interview with WHTC, he’d never planned on becoming Hope’s president, and had to think it over before accepting.
At the time Hope officials announced he was their choice, Karl Droppers, chairman of Hope’s board of trustees, said Scogin is “a strategic thinker who has worked on the most important economic and social issues facing our nation, Matt will bring intellectual depth and visionary leadership to Hope College. Matt personifies the mission of Hope, as he has led a life of leadership and service at the highest levels of business and government. He is also a passionate follower of Christ, brings a strong commitment to inclusive excellence and diversity, and articulates the college’s mission with contagious and inspiring enthusiasm. This makes him the perfect leader for Hope’s next chapter.”
Scogin and his wife, Sarah, who is also a Hope alum (the couple met at Hope), have three children: Sophie, Lucy and Oliver. He was named Hope’s Young Alumni of the Year in 2014.
He describes Hope’s campus as “beautiful, vibrant and rich in culture and learning,” he said, adding that he’s excited for his children to grow up in that environment.
The Portage native turns 40 on Aug. 23.
