After over two decades of dedicated service, Dr. William (Bill) Thierfelder, the 20th president of Belmont Abbey College, has announced plans to retire effective August 2, 2025 – the 21st anniversary of his college leadership.
Since assuming the role in 2004, Dr. Thierfelder has led Belmont Abbey College through remarkable growth and transformation. Under his stewardship, the college has expanded academic programs, opened five new residence halls, enhanced campus facilities, launched and carried out an unprecedented $150 million capital campaign, reinvigorated the college’s Catholic identity, and strengthened community partnerships.
“Serving as president of Belmont Abbey College has been the joy of a lifetime,” said Dr. Thierfelder.
“Together with an incredible team of administrators, faculty, and staff, we have achieved tremendous milestones. I am deeply grateful to our students, alumni, and supporters for their commitment to our shared mission. I have overwhelming gratitude to God for giving me this charge and the grace of the confidence to know that I am leaving the college a more secure, more stable, and more faithful place dedicated to His mission.”
Once hired, he made it his life’s mission to strengthen the college for the glory of God. Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Chuck Cornelio, reflected on the impact of his presidency.
“Belmont Abbey College would not be the wonderful place it is if not for Bill Thierfelder. Bill’s leadership over the last two decades has been instrumental, and we congratulate and honor his faith-filled stewardship of our vibrant Catholic community,” said Cornelio.
“On behalf of the board, I want to thank Dr. Thierfelder for his unwavering commitment to the Abbey; we are pleased Bill will continue to be involved in many ways as the College progresses into the next era.”
What they're saying: Abbot Placid Solari, O.S.B. of Belmont Abbey Monastery, issued the following statement:
“On behalf of all the monks of Belmont Abbey, I wish to express our profound gratitude to Dr. and Mrs. Thierfelder for their twenty-one years of generous and dedicated service to Belmont Abbey College. Responding to what they perceived as a call, they arrived at a critical time in the College’s history in 2004. Our monastic community can offer only gratitude and respect in response to Dr. Thierfelder’s decision that the time has come for him to step away from the office of President. We are happy that, after a very well-deserved sabbatical, we can look forward to welcoming Bill and Mary back to continued service as active members of our college community. We give thanks to God for their leadership and devoted service to Belmont Abbey and Belmont Abbey College.”
What's next: Dr. Thierfelder plans to return to campus in Fall 2026 to join the faculty.
The Board of Trustees will soon initiate a national search for President Thierfelder’s successor.
The college will announce more details on the transition process in the coming months.
Go deeper: Click here to read the full press release.