By Catholic Review Staff
The Mount St. Mary’s University Board of Trustees announced March 21 it has reappointed President Thomas H. Powell, the Emmitsburg institution’s current president, to continue in his position for another two years.
“The Board is steadfast in its commitment to selectivity in its search for an exceptional leader,” John E. Coyne III, a Mount alumnus and Board chairman, said in a statement. “After careful consideration, the trustees are extending the presidential search process and are very grateful to President Powell for his ongoing service to Mount St. Mary’s University.”
President Powell was appointed the Mount’s 24th president in 2003.
During his tenure, the university has experienced growth and success, according to information from the Mount. In recent years, the university achieved record-breaking student enrollment, the renovation of campus facilities and the construction of the new residence hall.
President Powell led the Mount’s designation change from college to university status and an academic reorganization, according to information from the Mount. The university continues to grow its undergraduate and graduate programs, and the Veritas Program common curriculum and Institute for Leadership are recognized as national models in a liberal arts education.
“It is a distinct privilege to serve as president of Mount St. Mary’s University,” Powell said in a statement. “I am humbled and grateful the Board of Trustees asked me to remain at the helm while the search for my successor continues.
Additionally, my wife, Irene, is looking forward to continuing her work with the Mount Family Association as well as coordinating many internal and external community programs and events.”
Powell announced last May his plans to step down as the leader of the Mount, effective at the conclusion of the 2013-14 school year. Following his announcement, the university said that a comprehensive national search would begin the following month for the Mount’s 25th president, led by trustee Scott Wilfong and a search committee of trustees, faculty, staff, administrators, students and alumni.
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