Steven M. Corey, Ph.D.

Phone: 269-749-7642

Steven M. Corey, Ph.D has served the University of Olivet since 2010. Throughout his presidency, Dr. Corey has been guided by a commitment to expanding educational opportunity, strengthening student success and building a community where students are known, supported and prepared to lead lives of purpose and service.

A firm believer in the transformative power of higher education, Dr. Corey believes every student brings unique gifts, experiences and potential to the college experience. His leadership reflects Olivet’s longstanding commitment to providing a personal, relationship-centered education where students are encouraged to discover their strengths, grow in confidence and make a positive difference in their communities and beyond.

Expanding Opportunity and Student Success

A central focus of Dr. Corey’s presidency has been ensuring that a private university education remains accessible to students who desire a close-knit, immersive college experience. He has championed initiatives that support first-generation students and students from a variety of backgrounds, recognizing the value and perspective they bring to the Olivet community.

In 2022, Dr. Corey announced The University of Olivet ADVANTAGE Scholarship, which covers the full cost of tuition for qualifying Michigan students who meet eligibility requirements for the Michigan Achievement Scholarship and federal Pell Grant. The initiative reflects Olivet’s historic commitment to opening doors to higher education and helping students pursue their goals.

Dr. Corey also launched Olivet Direct!, a direct-admission partnership program designed to simplify the college application process for qualified students while strengthening connections between Olivet and partner school districts.

Leading Olivet Forward

Under Dr. Corey’s leadership, Olivet has continued to build on its historic mission while evolving to meet the needs of today’s students. In 2023, with unanimous approval from the Board of Trustees, Olivet College became The University of Olivet. This milestone reflects the institution’s growth as a comprehensive university and its strategic vision.

The strategic plan, Olivet 2030: Vision for a Prosperous Future, continues Olivet’s commitment to providing a personalized education while expanding opportunities through new academic programs, online degree completion options, graduate programs and cerfificate offerings.

During Dr. Corey’s tenure, the University has experienced significant growth in academic programs, campus facilities and student opportunities. His leadership has included the development of new learning spaces, expanded student experiences and the completion of the $21 million Cutler Student Center.

Strengthening the University Community

Dr. Corey has placed a strong emphasis on building a culture of leadership and engagement throughout the University. During his presidency, Olivet has established initiatives including the President’s Leadership Institute and Employee Leadership Academy.

He has also worked to strengthen Olivet’s connection with the surrounding community through initiatives such as ONE Olivet, recognizing that the success of the University and the community are deeply connected.

Dr. Corey’s presidency has included significant advancement efforts, including Olivet’s first comprehensive fundraising campaign, which raised more than $47 million and supported transformational investments across campus. The campaign included the largest single gift in University history and helped position Olivet for continued growth and opportunity.

Prior to Olivet

Before joining The University of Olivet, Dr. Corey served as executive vice president at Prescott College, where he oversaw administrative and operational initiatives while also teaching courses in higher education finance, organization and administration, nonprofit management and related areas.

Earlier in his career, he served in several leadership roles at Cumberland University, including vice president for administration, vice president for athletics, director of sports medicine and faculty member. He also served as a fellow for administrative collaboratives with the Tennessee Independent Colleges and Universities Association.

In 2006, Dr. Corey was appointed by Arizona Governor Janet Napolitano and reappointed by Governor Jan Brewer to serve on the Arizona State Commission for Postsecondary Education, where he served as chair for three years.

Dr. Corey earned a doctorate in higher education finance from the University of Arizona, a Master of Business Administration from Cumberland University, a Master of Science from Arizona State University and a Bachelor of Science from California State University at Fresno.

Born and raised in Clovis, California, Dr. Corey is married to Kelly Corey, Ph.D. and has one adult daughter, Karli, a marine scientist.