Dr. Ronald Applbaum has removed his name from consideration for the presidency of Grand Valley State University. Dr. Applbaum notified Dorothy Johnson, chair of the GVSU presidential search, of his decision Thursday morning. Applbaum is president of Kean University, Union, New Jersey and is one of three finalists recommended by the search committee.
Dr. Applbaum's statement is as follows:
I would like to notify the
Board of Trustees at GVSU that I would like to remove my name from
consideration for the post of president.
I would like to express my appreciation for both the personal concern and professional manner in which I was treated as a candidate for the presidency at GVSU. My wife and I want to thank all of the members of the campus community who devoted time to make our short visit earlier this month so pleasurable.
I am fortunate to be the president at a fine university that is undergoing such positive growth and development. Based on my discussions with the Kean University campus community members and my Board of Trustees in particular, it is in the best interest of the institution and myself to remain at my present post.
I am certain that you will appoint an individual to the presidency who meets the needs and requirements of Grand Valley State University and its community stakeholders for the future.
GVSU Board Chair Donna Brooks responded as follows:
We regret Dr.
Applbaum's decision and understand why the Kean University community
wants him to stay. All of us were impressed by Dr. Applbaum's
credentials and remain grateful for his willingness to become a
candidate at Grand Valley State University. We extend to Ron and Susan
our best wishes for his continued success at Kean University.
