Kenneth Witcher, Ph.D., FRAeS, Named Chancellor for the Prescott Campus

Dr. Ken Witcher has been named Chancellor for the Prescott Campus, effective January 1, 2025. Dr. Witcher has been serving in an interim capacity in the role since July 2024, and during that time, he has demonstrated tremendous leadership; commitment to Prescott students, faculty and staff; and service to the Yavapai County, Arizona community.

According to Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University President P. Barry Butler, Ph.D., Dr. Witcher’s leadership has been second-to-none: “Our Prescott Campus is an integral part of our University community, and the commitment Dr. Witcher has shown to both the campus and our University leadership team is a testament to his unwavering service and steadfast dedication to Embry-Riddle.” Dr. Butler added, “It is my honor to recognize Dr. Witcher’s past achievements as we look forward to his contributions to the future of our Prescott Campus.”

Embry-Riddle’s Prescott Campus is currently undergoing significant modernizations, including the expanded Robertson Flight Simulation Center, upgrades to its wind tunnel and facility, and a new student union and residence hall, which will be unveiled in 2026. Dr. Witcher will oversee this expansion.

Prescott philanthropist and community leader Jim Lee shared that Dr. Witcher exemplifies the spirit of excellence that has become synonymous with Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. “The announcement of his appointment as Chancellor for the Prescott Campus is a testament to his steadfast dedication to Embry-Riddle students and the Prescott community,” said Mr. Lee. “Linda and I look forward to our continued collaboration with Chancellor Witcher and serving as witnesses to his visionary leadership that will undoubtedly foster greater service, philanthropy and a profound commitment to our community while guiding the students of tomorrow toward success."

Prior to his role leading the Prescott campus, Dr. Witcher served for over a decade as Dean of the College of Aviation - Worldwide, leading a team of over 700 active faculty, supporting over 14,000 students. He has also been an esteemed Embry-Riddle faculty member since 2004.

Dr. Witcher said that his love for aviation and aerospace, in conjunction with his service to students, is his north star. “When I wake up each day, I have a mission to contribute to something bigger than myself,” he shared. “Our students are laser-focused on their future careers, mainly in the aviation and aerospace sectors — whether that’s through flight, engineering, safety or security. I’m humbled and honored to serve them as they prepare to change the world.”

Dr. Witcher’s impressive career in the aviation industry includes 20 years of service in the United States Air Force, where he served as superintendent of an operational test and evaluation squadron and field training detachment chief for many aircraft and supporting systems. He also served as a team member of the United States Air Force Air Demonstration Squadron, Thunderbirds.

Dr. Witcher is a proud Embry-Riddle alumnus, having received his Master of Aeronautical Science degree from the University. He received his Ph.D. in Aviation Science/Public Administration from Northcentral University. He is a Fellow FRAeS, the highest grade of membership in the Royal Aeronautical Society, awarded to members with outstanding contributions in the field of aviation and aerospace.

Posted In: Institutional News