This morning, West Chester University President Madeleine Wing Adler announced her decision to retire from her position. She said her retirement will be effective at the end of our next fiscal year, which will be June 30, 2008.
Speaking before a packed house at the University’s new Performing Arts Theater, Dr. Adler noted that “this was a very difficult decision,” but “there comes a time, however, when you realize that your principal goals have been accomplished and that the University is best served by providing new opportunities for leadership.”
Dr. Adler was West Chester University’s 13th president, and the first woman to hold that post. She became president in 1992. During her tenure as president, the university has grown considerably, both physically and academically. Of particular note are the successful improvements to campus facilities during her term as president, including the new music and performing arts center, the graduate business center, the science center, new residence halls, and several parking garages.
Prior to coming to West Chester, Dr. Adler was academic vice president at Framingham State College, just outside of Boston, Massachusetts. During her remarks this morning, she implied that she may be returning to the Boston area to champion public education projects. She also mentioned that her husband, Fred Lane, will be completing a new book in the new future.
I would like to personally extend my best wishes to Dr. Adler, and congratulate her on the many achievements of her presidency. She leaves behind a great legacy, and will be a “tough act to follow.”
Want to see more pictures? I’ve uploaded the pictures I took this morning as both a Facebook Album and as an iPhoto photocast.