William C. Gordon to step down as Provost

Letter to the Wake Forest community announcing the resignation of William C. Gordon

Dear Colleagues,

Over the course of several months, Bill Gordon and I have been discussing his future plans, and the length of time he might want to continue to serve in his role as Provost. Some weeks ago, Bill made the decision to continue as Provost through the current academic year, but to then step down from that position on June 30, 2007. Bill informed the faculty of his decision earlier today, indicating that by June 30 he will have served five years as Provost, and 17 years in central administration in higher education, and thought that now was the time to focus his efforts on other endeavors. I respect his decision and am extremely grateful to Bill for his exceptional service to Wake Forest. There will be opportunities later this spring for our Wake Forest community to honor and thank Bill for his leadership.

A press release will be issued today announcing Bill’s decision and is available on the Wake Forest News Service Web site.

Within a few weeks I will be able to share with you plans for the search process for a new provost and more details regarding the timeline for that effort. I will also have occasion to discuss these matters with the Trustees at their Board meeting next week.

Let me close by thanking Bill for his leadership. I look forward to our work together during the remainder of the academic year.

Sincerely,

Nathan O. Hatch
President