Mountains and Minds Spring 2009 from Montana State University

To the alumni and friends of Montana State University,

As you may have heard by now, I announced my plans to retire as president of Montana State University. I want to share with you some of the reasons why my wife, Patricia, and I made this decision.

For the past 25 years, I’ve pursued my career as an administrator. It has been a tremendous experience and, through people like you, it has enriched my life in ways I could never have imagined.

A few years ago, Patricia and I decided that 2009 would be my last year as president of MSU. That decision has been reinforced by Patricia’s recent bout with cancer, my mother’s health and, happily, the birth of a new grandchild in January.

A search must begin now if a new president is to assume the post by the end of the year. I’ve asked Montana Commissioner of Higher Education Sheila Stearns to commence that search.

On behalf of the Montana Board of Regents, the commissioner’s office will lead the process, but students, faculty, staff, friends and the community at large will have opportunities to be involved. I will remain president for as long as it takes to find my successor, even if that carries me into 2010.

I had never intended to end my working career as an administrator, but rather as a teacher, which remains my passion. So, I plan to teach one or two courses each year and have already had one of my course syllabi accepted.

Patricia and I are looking forward to spending more time together and with our daughters and grandchildren. We are also looking forward to exploring more of Montana together, as there is still much we have not been able to see. Perhaps we’ll see you on our travels.

Credit for the success of MSU belongs not to the president, but to its students, faculty, staff, alumni and our many friends. It has always been so and will continue to be. A change in presidents will not alter that.

MSU is a strong institution; it derives its strength neither through its buildings nor its bank accounts, but through its people. You are the strength and the spirit of this place.

Patricia and I are so grateful to have spent these past nine years with you and look forward to a continuing relationship with you as friends and neighbors. We thank you all.

Sincerely,
Geoff Gamble, president

Full Issue: http://www.montana.edu/mountainsandminds/