Statement of Illinois Wesleyan President-elect Richard F. Wilson

On the Occasion of his Introduction to the University Community
as Illinois Wesleyan’s 18th President

I am extremely pleased and excited to have been selected to serve as the next President of Illinois Wesleyan University. I would also like to thank Gil Dorsey, members of the search committee, and the Board of Trustees for the manner in which this search was conducted, especially the very sensitive way in which each step in the process was handled. I also would be remiss if I did not acknowledge my colleagues at the University of Illinois who provided both support and inspiration at key points in my career.

Given my academic interests and administrative career, it will not surprise you that I have harbored a dream that someday I might serve as a college president at a leading institution in this country. When this opportunity was brought to my attention, I was immediately intrigued because of the quality of the University. As the search unfolded, I found other equally compelling reasons:

• I was impressed with the strong sense of loyalty that exists among the faculty, staff, students, trustees, and alumni
• I was struck by the pervasive commitment to teaching, creative, and scholarly excellence.
• I was delighted to see how the liberal arts are emphasized and integrated into every student’s program, regardless of major.
• I sensed a commitment to the core mission but a willingness to experiment and entertain new ideas.
• I was pleased to find that the institution has a sound financial plan and an enviable financial record.
• I was delighted to learn that the emphasis on quality and fairness in academic matters carries over to student services, intercollegiate athletics, personnel policies and housing.
• I was impressed by some of the initial work that has been done to define and develop a plan for issues key to the University’s future, particularly in relation to diversity.
• I was also impressed with the leadership provided by the trustees, officers, department heads, and key committees during what had to be a difficult year.
• And the list goes on…
  

In my view, these aspirations and commitments established Illinois Wesleyan as a place secure in its image and positioned to continue moving forward as a national leader in higher education. I found myself dreaming with you even before the search was completed and now welcome the opportunity to work with you to define the dream.

The best part is that I will be working with what I perceive to be dedicated faculty, staff, students, and alumni as well as several caring constituencies external to the campus. For all of these reasons and more, I am extremely pleased to be selected as your 18th President. My wife and I look forward to the move to Bloomington and to becoming part of the Illinois Wesleyan community.