Rhona C. Free has served as president of the University of Saint Joseph since 2015. During her tenure, the West Hartford institution became fully coeducational, added new academic majors, consolidated health care programs onto its main campus and expanded athletics and facilities.
Over the past year, Free said student outcomes have remained a key measure of success. Physician Assistant Studies students posted a 100% first-time pass rate on licensure exams, while nursing, education and applied behavior analysis graduates also recorded strong results. The university was recognized in 2025 by the Carnegie Foundation as the only Opportunity College in the state based on graduate earnings. With residence halls at capacity, the university expanded housing into Hartford and will add off-campus units this fall.
Looking ahead, Free cited the need to remain agile amid shifting student interests and workforce demands. She also pointed to opportunities tied to West Hartford’s location and proximity to Hartford internships and clinical placements.
What qualities are most essential for effective leadership today?
Especially in higher-ed, success requires keeping a focus on mission while being adaptable. For USJ, that means prioritizing the needs and preferences of our students, and ensuring that — once they graduate — they are well-prepared to add value to their workplaces and communities. Being nimble and creative is critical.
What do you value most about living or doing business in Connecticut?
Being in a community that values quality of life and education is important to me, personally and as a college president. Connecticut offers wonderful libraries, museums, recreation, health care and education. These not only make it a great place to live, but also strengthen our ability to recruit talented students and employees.
Check out the other 2026 Power Players
What is one change that would make Connecticut more competitive economically?
Policies that promote access to affordable housing would strengthen Connecticut’s competitiveness. Housing availability attracts employees and keeps students in the state after they graduate.
Favorite authors: Anne Tyler, Colm TóibÃn and Chimamanda Adichie
Go-to news media outlets: BBC World Service, NPR, The New York Times, Hartford Courant, Connecticut Mirror, Hartford Business Journal, Chronicle of Higher Education and Inside Higher Ed
Hobby or leisure activity: Reading fiction and running