Dr. Kate McCaffrey
Senior Higher Education Leader | Scholar-Practitioner
Leadership, Learning & Change
A higher education leader, executive coach, and educator with more than three decades of experience supporting institutions, leaders, and teams through change, growth, and organizational transformation.
Grounded in integrity, a deep belief in the transformative power of higher education, and decades of institutional leadership experience, Dr. McCaffrey brings a steady, human-centered approach to leadership, learning, and organizational change.
Experience for This Moment in Higher Education
Dr. Kate McCaffrey is a higher education leader, executive coach, and educator with deep experience in cabinet-level leadership, institutional strategy, organizational change, and leadership development. Her work has focused on advancing student success, strengthening organizational culture, supporting strategic execution, and helping institutions navigate periods of transition and uncertainty.
A graduate of the Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts and a lifelong advocate for higher education, Dr. McCaffrey understands firsthand the transformative impact of access, belonging, and mission-driven leadership. Across her career, she has partnered with presidents, boards, senior leadership teams, faculty, staff, and campus communities to align people, priorities, and purpose in service of institutional effectiveness and long-term sustainability.
Her work reflects a belief that strong institutions are built through thoughtful leadership, authentic relationships, clear communication, and a commitment to helping people and organizations grow together.
Commitment to Higher Education
Dr. McCaffrey’s work is grounded in a deep commitment to the transformative power of higher education and the belief that meaningful learning happens at the intersection of rigorous academics, experiential education, reflective leadership, and authentic human connection.
As a higher education leader, executive coach, and educator, her work bridges theory and practice — helping students, professionals, and leadership teams strengthen their capacity to lead with clarity, adaptability, and purpose in rapidly changing environments. Her approach integrates leadership development, organizational insight, and applied learning experiences that prepare individuals to lead thoughtfully and effectively within complex institutions and communities.