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By: Kate Hensley | May 4, 2026
The University of Pikeville (UPIKE) has announced that Lori Werth, Ph.D., currently serving as executive vice president and chief strategy officer, will be leaving the institution later this summer to become president of Rocky Vista University (RVU).
During her 10 years at UPIKE, Werth has played a pivotal role in advancing institutional strategy, growth and student success. She has led the launch of undergraduate and graduate academic programs and expanded athletic and co-curricular offerings to strengthen student engagement.
Her leadership and partnerships helped establish the new Tanner College of Dental Medicine, set to welcome its first class on June 1. Werth was also an instrumental figure in spearheading the university’s $50 million capital campaign, engaging both private donors and foundations to advance transformational philanthropic investment.
“Dr. Werth is a visionary and collaborative leader who has made a lasting impact on the University of Pikeville,” said President Burton Webb, Ph.D. “Her ability to align strategy with mission, build strong teams and deliver results for students and the institution has been exceptional. While we will miss her greatly, we are proud to see her step into the presidency at Rocky Vista University, where she will continue to lead with integrity, innovation and purpose.”
RVU’s main campus is located in Denver, Colo., and its secondary campuses are in Utah and Montana. The university offers a range of graduate-level health professions programs. Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and the American Osteopathic Association’s COCA, RVU aims to develop competent, compassionate health care providers who can serve diverse communities and address workforce needs.
Werth’s departure marks both a moment of gratitude for her significant contributions to the UPIKE and an exciting opportunity as she assumes leadership of RVU.