Dr. Ritu Raju is a distinguished leader in higher education with over 20 years of experience in academic administration and teaching. She currently serves as the President of South Central College, a position she assumed in July 2025.

Prior to her role at South Central College, Dr. Raju held several key positions in higher education, including President of Gateway Technical College; Vice President of Academic Affairs at Tarrant County College; and Dean of Manufacturing at Houston Community College. She has extensive experience teaching English and Technical Communication as well as program development and enrollment management. Dr. Raju earned her doctorate in Technical Communication and Rhetoric from Texas Tech University, a master’s in English from Sam Houston State University and a bachelor’s degree from University of Houston-Downtown.

Known for her collaborative approach and interpersonal abilities, Dr. Raju brings a warm and thoughtful vision to her role at South Central College. She emphasizes the importance of community engagement and interacting with every member of the SCC community. She serves on various boards, national, state and local committees. A firm believer in the power of education to change lives, she is passionate about student success.

Dr. Ritu Raju is a seasoned higher education leader who brings more than 20 years of experience in higher education, having served in faculty roles in both four-year and two-year institutions. She also has extensive leadership and administrative experience from her progressive roles as Department Chair, Dean, Vice President of Academic Affairs and as a college President reporting to a board and as part of a large state system. Dr. Raju offers a background in academic and workforce program development, grant funding, and strong expertise in building collaborations and partnerships with employers and community organizations.

Dr. Raju was appointed to the Mankato Area Foundation Board of Directors in 2026.