President
Meet President Putnam
Mark Putnam, Central College’s 21st president, brings more than 35 years of experience from various vantage points in higher education. Since his arrival in 2010, Putnam has led fundraising initiatives for significant campus renovations, expanded academic and experiential programs and advocated for education and community development through various leadership roles.
Presidential Service
Mark is active in local, regional and national efforts to advance education, including the college’s priorities, and promote economic and community development. He has been Central's president since 2010.
- American Rivers Conference — Chair of the Conference Presidents Council
- Executive committee of the Future Ready Iowa Alliance
- Greater Des Moines Partnership
- Iowa Association of Independent Colleges and Universities
- Iowa College Foundation
- Iowa College Student Aid Commission
- Iowa Work-based Learning Advisory Board
- NCAA Division III — Member of the Presidents/Chancellors Advisory Group (Representing the American Rivers Conference)
- Pella Area Community and Economic Alliance
- Student aid committee of the National Association of Independent Colleges and Universities
Latest News
Managing the Presidency Through the Arc of Time
In an article published in AGB Institute’s magazine, Central College President Mark Putnam explores the impact of continuity in a college presidency.
Read More