Dear Ithaca College Community Member,
I hope you are having a restful and productive summer. I want to share some important news with you.
A few days ago I met with Bill Schwab, chair of the IC board of trustees, to tell him of my plans to retire as President of IC effective May 31, 2008. I made this decision now because I believe that the timing is right for me, personally. After 36 years in higher education—19 of those as a president—it is time for me to close this chapter in my professional life and move on to the next.
Institutionally, the time is also right for presidential transition. By May 31, 2008, we will have achieved two significant milestones: the completion of IC’s first comprehensive campaign; and our ten-year institutional self assessment review under the aegis of Middle States. Finishing these two major undertakings provides an excellent platform for a new president to continue the advancement of IC’s “Commitment to Excellence”.
Every day, during the past 10 years that I have served as your president, I have come to campus enthusiastic and committed to our work together. We have a busy and important year ahead of us and I will come to work every day with the same enthusiasm and commitment.
I take great pride in the many advances which we have helped IC realize together. Looking back, your competence, your positive energy, your integrity, your diligence and your camaraderie are the traits of IC’s institutional character that have made it a pleasure to serve as your president.
The trustees have asked me to continue to serve IC actively during a sabbatical year in 2008-9. I look forward to assisting with the presidential transition as appropriate. I also anticipate an ongoing affiliation with IC for many years to come.
We have exciting and important work to do together during the 2007-8 academic year. This work will strengthen IC’s tremendous momentum to the considerable advantage of the College and the new president.
I cannot imagine a better group of faculty, staff and students that I could serve. It is not just your willingness to fulfill your respective duties, but it is your genuine spirit of community and decency that makes Ithaca College the very special place that it is.
Thank you. I look forward to the new academic year.
Peggy R. Williams
President
https://www.ithaca.edu/intercom/article.php/20070712140046911