The President's Perspective: On Endings and Beginnings

Alumni, Arches

"One of the greatest joys of my presidency has been the opportunity to work alongside you — our incredible alumni. Whether meeting you at events, welcoming you back to our beautiful campus for Homecoming, or seeing the way you mentor our students, I am constantly inspired by the way you carry the ‘To the Heights’ spirit into the world. You are the living legacy of this university, and your passion for this institution has been a primary source of energy for me throughout my tenure. With that spirit of community in mind, I wanted to share with you my plans to retire and conclude my service as the 14th president of the University of Puget Sound on July 1, 2027.

“This decision comes with a full heart. The timing feels right as I look at all we have accomplished together — navigating a pandemic, modernizing our curriculum, expanding graduate education, securing the largest individual gift to the university in our history, and advancing ambitious plans for the years ahead. By sharing this news now, I hope to provide the Board of Trustees, under the leadership of Chair Beth Picardo ’83, JD’86, the time needed to conduct a thoughtful, inclusive national search and to ensure a transition that sustains our momentum. The road ahead will be busy and inspiring, and I look forward to all that we will continue to accomplish together.

“Serving this university has been the honor of my professional life. Kent and I are profoundly grateful for the warmth of this community and for the countless moments we have shared with you — at lectures and performances, in classrooms and laboratories, at community and campus celebrations, alumni gatherings, at Logger games and competitions, and at our glorious Commencement ceremonies. The rhythms of life at Puget Sound, from the first day of classes to graduation, have shaped us deeply, and we will carry these memories with us always. Thank you for all you do for this extraordinary institution.”

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