Dr. Gregory Tomso began his term as St. Cloud State University’s 26th president on January 5, 2026 bringing a deep commitment to academic excellence and student success.
A native of Chesapeake, Virginia, Dr. Tomso grew up in a community known for its proximity to the Chesapeake Bay and its strong naval shipbuilding tradition. His family’s story reflects resilience and opportunity—his mother was the youngest of 11 children from a Kentucky farming family, and his father was a World War II refugee from Czechoslovakia. While college was not part of his family’s history, his parents encouraged him to pursue higher education, promising support if he earned good grades.
Dr. Tomso attended the University of Virginia, where he discovered his passion for the humanities, history, and literary studies. He earned a Bachelor of Arts in English and History with a concentration in American Studies and a minor in German.
His academic journey continued at Duke University, where he earned a Ph.D. in English with a specialization in American literature. Immersed in an interdisciplinary and vibrant intellectual environment, Dr. Tomso embraced emerging fields such as cultural studies and gender studies.
Dr. Tomso brings passion for learning and innovation to St. Cloud State University, guiding the institution toward a future of excellence, equity, and opportunity for all students.