Home- About- The People of Colgate- President Jeffrey Herbst- Presidents of Colgate Presidents of Colgate Jeffrey Herbst is the 16th and current president of Colgate University. Founded in 1819, the university’s first president took office 1836, and ever since Colgate has thrived under presidential leadership, making us one of today’s leading liberal arts institutions. University Timeline For an in-depth, visual perspective on Colgate's history, visit our ever-evolving Facebook timeline. Presidential Timeline About Past, Present, and Future Colgate at a Glance About Hamilton, New York Maps and Directions The People of Colgate President Jeffrey Herbst World Affairs Conversations Biography President's Staff Presidents of Colgate Board of Trustees Faculty Spotlights Student Spotlights Alumni Spotlights Facilities at Colgate Newsroom RELATED LINKS Intellectual Engagement INTELLECTUAL ENGAGEMENT Collaborative research by highly regarded faculty is a Colgate trademark. Off-Campus Study OFF-CAMPUS STUDY Colgate has one of the most robust off-campus study programs in the country. Career Services CAREER SERVICES Staff members and dedicated alumni play a key role in students' career exploration. Lucky 13 LUCKY 13 Find out why 13 is the most popular number on campus.