President's Column
First
 Farewells
Dear Friends of Austin College,
A well-known passage from
scripture framed the focus of the Campaign for the New Era: “To
every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under
heaven.”
These words from the Book of
Ecclesiastes articulated for the Austin College community the idea
that we were at a pivotal juncture in our history. For us to move
forward on a path that would provide the promise of our unique form of
education for generations to come, we needed to make a significant
commitment and investment in our future. This historic call was
answered resoundingly. Austin College forever has been changed because
of this outpouring of generosity, and the higher purpose we serve
continues to find new form and meaning as a result. In the process, we
have been good stewards of our many talents, as both individuals and a
community of higher education.
I have reflected on this scripture
again lately, and believe just as these words spoke to the Austin
College community as a whole, providing focus for our future, they are
now speaking to me as the College’s president. With exceeding
gratitude for the honor I have had to serve this great College, I
announce my intent to step down as president of Austin College
effective June 30, 2009.
As I anticipate the conclusion of
our current Strategic Plan and look ahead to completion of our
accreditation process through the Southern Association of Colleges and
Schools, it became clear to me that the time has come for a season of
new leadership. By making this announcement now, I am confident there
will be a smooth transition that allows sufficient time to search for
my successor.
This decision is bittersweet. For
the past 30 years, I have had the privilege of serving as a
senior-level administrator at colleges and universities throughout the
South. Guiding the work of this institution has been rewarding beyond
measure, and I consider my time at Austin College as the crowning
achievement of my career.
As I anticipate stepping down from
the presidency of Austin College, I have already begun to reflect upon
the many great opportunities I have had to serve young people and to
work with outstanding faculty and Board members.
Over the last 14 years, I have had
the satisfaction of watching young people mature in mind, body, and
spirit. My fond memories of the many students who have traversed this
campus during my tenure are not limited to their time on campus. I
have been fortunate to follow with interest their success in life, and
I commend them for their great commitment to service to others.
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