President Walker decides not to return to Upper Iowa University, nationwide search for successor launched
FAYETTE, Iowa (January 2, 2013) – Dr. Alan G. Walker, the 20th president of Upper Iowa University, has decided not to resume the helm of the University at the end of his sabbatical. Walker had requested and been granted a sabbatical by the UIU Board of Trustees in September 2012.
UIU Acting President Richard R. Patrick and UIU Chairman of the Board Robert Firth joined in making the announcement of Dr. Walker's decision. They said the University has launched a nationwide search for a new UIU President. The search committee is being formed and will include representation from UIU students, faculty, staff, alumni, and the Board of Trustees.
"Dr. Walker has led this university since 2004," Firth said. "Since arriving at the University, Dr. Walker has embarked on a focused effort to move the institution forward. Under his leadership, Upper Iowa University has seen increases in enrollment, program development, partnering with surrounding communities, fundraising and capital improvements. The global university that is UIU today is a direct result of Dr. Walker's vision and initiatives."
Dr. Patrick noted that the University has been operating smoothly during Dr. Walker's sabbatical and said he anticipates continued continuity in operations with the announcement of Dr. Walker's decision. "Any effective organization is sufficiently flexible to adjust quickly to change, and UIU has already made those adjustments," Patrick said. "Each of us will miss Dr. Walker personally and professionally, but the University continues to thrive and we look forward to continued success under new leadership."
About Upper Iowa University
Founded in 1857, Upper Iowa University is a private, not-for-profit university providing undergraduate and graduate degree programs and leadership development opportunities to some 6,200 students—nationally and internationally—at its Fayette campus and learning centers worldwide. Upper Iowa University is a recognized innovator in offering accredited, quality programs through flexible, multiple delivery systems, including online and independent study. For more information, visit www.uiu.edu.
Contact:
Monica Bayer Heaton
Associate Vice President for Communication and Marketing
Phone 563-425-5773
Cell: 515-291-2070
heatonm@uiu.edu