Illinois State students, faculty, staff, and other members of the campus community gathered Thursday in the Brown Ballroom to say farewell to President Al Bowman and First Lady Linda Bowman.
Bowman, who announced his retirement last December, was honored at a reception hosted by the vice presidents and packed with the people he touched over his 35-year career at the University.
Hundreds waited in a reception line, which stretched the length of the Brown Ballroom, to personally wish the Bowmans farewell. Leaders of the campus community also shared sentiments on how Illinois State’s 17th president changed the face of the University.
Aaron Von Qualen ’12, student member of the Board of Trustees, noted that Al Bowman had been a catalyst for change in the culture of Illinois State.
“To the outside increased ACT scores, higher rankings, and an improved face of campus are Bowman’s legacy of leadership and success,” Von Qualen said. “To the campus community his humble and collegial leadership has not only improved ISU, it has defined what it means to be a Redbird. His passion is contagious.”
Dan Holland, chair of the Academic Senate, praised Bowman for his work as a leader at Illinois State.
“It is difficult to express what Al has meant to faculty members at ISU,” Holland said. “A large part of his success is his intimate understanding of what it means to be a faculty member. We look forward to greeting him back into the faculty ranks in the fall.”
Provost Sheri Noren Everts expressed admiration for Linda Bowman, who “joyfully juggled her career while hosting thousands of events.”
Al Bowman thanked the Board of Trustees for having confidence in a candidate who was untested, and he lauded the work of the campus community in making Illinois State the acclaimed university it is today.
“I knew I could be successful as president because I knew the enormous potential Illinois State had,” Bowman said. “We have succeeded together against incredible headwinds.”
Bowman also shared appreciation for the support his wife provided over his tenure as president. Linda Bowman is also director of Illinois State’s Eckelmann-Taylor Speech and Hearing Clinic.
“Linda is the perfect university partner for me and the perfect bride,” Bowman said. “This is a job you can’t do alone.”
Al Bowman will remain in office until the 18th president of the University is selected. He plans to return in the fall as a faculty member and has pledged to remain a part of Illinois State.
Video: Here’s President Bowman’s farewell reception speech:
