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Search is under way for new Whitworth president
In mid-September, Whitworth President Bill Robinson dropped a bit of a bombshell. In an e-mail to the Whitworth community, Robinson wrote that "I have informed the board of trustees that I would like 2009-10 to be my final year as Whitworth University's president."
"After many prayers and careful assessments," Robinson continued, "I'm convinced that leaving the presidency is best for Whitworth and best for Bonnie and me." Robinson mentioned the launching of Whitworth's new strategic plan in 2010, and said that he anticipated great success for the university, with a new president and "a great cabinet" helming Whitworth in the upcoming years.
Robinson will serve Whitworth part time through academic year 2010-11 as president emeritus and consultant to the new chief exec. This one-year appointment will allow him to help with matters like fund-raising that require additional time to ensure a smooth transition. Chairman of the Whitworth Board of Trustees Walt Oliver, '67, informed the community about the search process for Robinson's successor. "We plan to conduct the same vigorous search process that brought Bill to Whitworth," Oliver wrote, "and that will identify an individual who can build on the excellent work that has been accomplished during Bill's tenure." Two members of the board have agreed to serve as co-chairs of the presidential search committee. The committee also includes members from Whitworth faculty, staff, student body and alumni, and from the Spokane community.
"As for me," Robinson wrote, "I just think it's time to step back. This is my 17th year at Whitworth and my 24th as a college president. Bonnie and I have lived where I work for two-thirds of our married life. We love it. And I love going out and campaigning for Whitworth, but I think maybe my adrenaline addiction is masking some fatigue. I'm not ready to retire, but I am ready to quiet myself and listen. We love Spokane and we have no plans to leave. I feel God's hand in our future, and it feels good."
For the latest information on Whitworth's presidential search, go to www.whitworth.edu/presidentialsearch.
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