I write to you today with a new title but the same mission to serve Illinois State University to the best of my abilities.
Appears InI am honored to be Illinois State’s 21st president. It is the greatest highlight of my career to accept this responsibility. I do so with great humility and appreciation for the entire Redbird community. It is a responsibility I do not take lightly.
It is a great time to be a Redbird. Our enrollment is strong. Our campus is growing. We’re conducting groundbreaking research, removing barriers to education, and adapting to meet new challenges while maintaining our strong traditions. We do all this to serve our current students and to make Illinois State University a preferred destination for prospective students, faculty, and staff.
Higher education faces a critical and defining moment in time. We are confronted with the risk of declining student enrollment, financial stress, diminished public trust in the value of a college degree, and rapidly changing technology and workforce expectations, to name just a few.
As I stated in my application letter, all universities must adapt to these challenges and opportunities. Those who do so effectively will succeed and thrive. Those who cannot will fall behind and may even fail. My highest priority as the 21st president is that Illinois State successfully navigates this moment and positions itself to succeed, thrive, and be resilient. I invite all friends and stakeholders to join me in this commitment. Let us embrace the challenges and opportunities ahead with courage, compassion, and a steadfast commitment to our shared values.
Together, we will chart a course for continued excellence, innovation, and impact, ensuring that our university remains a beacon of knowledge, opportunity, and inspiration for future generations.
I am grateful to the entire Redbird community for its support as I begin my presidency. When my wife, Roos, and I arrived on campus four years ago, we felt that support immediately—from faculty and staff, from alumni and friends, from our incredible students. This support and sense of community renews my passion for Illinois State University every day.
It is indeed a great time to be a Redbird, and I am eager to continue my work at this very special university. Much work remains, but we will do it together. Thank you for your continued support.
