Dr. Dawn Elena Pleas is the Senior-Level Woman Athletic Administrator at Southwestern College, where she leads and empowers all aspects of women’s athletics. In this role, Pleas ensures the college meets NAIA requirements for mentorship, guidance, and decision-making, partnering closely with the Athletic Director to support and shape athletic programs.
With 31 years of experience at Southwestern College, Pleas is a mentor, advocate, and institutional historian, playing an active role in the success of the Men’s Basketball program, SC Spirit squad, Women’s Soccer, and Men’s Basketball. She also drives the college’s mission-centered initiatives and collaborates on strategic projects.
In addition to her athletic responsibilities, Pleas serves as Vice President of Special Projects and Planning, reporting directly to President Liz Frombgen. In this capacity, she works on initiatives that advance the college both internally and externally, focusing on the Southwestern College 2028: Building Our Future Strategic Plan. Prior to this role, she served as Vice President of Student Success for eight years and Vice President of Student Life for 15 years.
Originally from Chicago, Dr. Pleas holds a doctorate in higher education leadership from the University of Pennsylvania’s Graduate School of Education.
