First-time President Brooke Barnett looks to propel Florida's oldest college into a new age for higher education while maintaining a timeless focus on a quality liberal arts education.

Half of the recently hired presidents had once served in an interim capacity. Plus: An 18-year leader announces his retirement.

Five leaders on this list are arriving as presidents of new institutions, while three have been promoted after having served in an interim position.

Digital transformation alone doesn't make a college competitive. But it does create the conditions under which people can do their best work.