Positive, Strong and Engaged to the End

By Kathleen Zelkowitz

VALPO: How did you decide now was the time to announce your plans to retire?

I spoke with the board leadership about the timing of my re­tire­ment for the past two years. Eventually we came to a meet­ing of minds that June 30, 2008, made sense. I was able to help launch the “Our Valpo” campaign. Its success will provide solid financial footing for the next president.

Also, with VU’s sesquicentennial in 2008-’09 there naturally will be strong inclination to look back. However, I believe 2008-’09 can be an opportune time to look forward. A new president will bring a fresh perspective to the position. In that sense, VU’s 150th anniversary will celebrate the past, but the focus will be on the future of VU.

VALPO: You’ve had a nearly 20-year tenure at Valpo. Most college presidents last 10 years. How have you dealt with fatigue?

I came to VU because I perceived it to be a calling. The nature of that calling became clearer as I served. The mission of Valpo is bigger than me or how I see things. I always keep my eye on the goal—to build VU into a stronger, better place. That requires constant effort.

I have great respect for VU’s students, faculty, staff, alumni and board. Their commitment motivates me to pursue the expecta­tions of what we collectively want VU to become. And it helps that my wife is very understanding and supportive.

VALPO: What is your most gratifying achievement at VU?

All of us in higher education ought to be part of this enter­prise because we want students to develop into responsible, mature, productive citizens. The tremendous success of our graduates has been very rewarding. I love hearing alumni tell their stories that end with “Because of Valpo I’ve become such and such ... .” We’re grateful for the blessings VU has been given through the years—the new buildings, faculty, etcetera. However, ultimately our success is demonstrated by our alumni: their faith, professional­ism, ethics, and service to others. That, for me, has been most gratifying of all.

VALPO: What was your greatest challenge?

Trying to address all of the issues over which we have no control. Federal and state action or inaction. Political pressures. Dealing with the economy—recessions, inflation, and so forth.

Internally there’s the constant need to achieve greater produc­tivity, and greater excellence—while addressing our financial limitations. It’s challenging to operate a world-class institution when we don’t have enough financial resources to meet all expectations. Provost Roy Austensen has said it best, “We’re better than we can afford to be.”

VALPO: How have you been preparing others for the eventual transition?

The inner leadership core knew this transition was coming. We’ve been planning extensively to assure the transition goes smoothly. Everything we thought to do is being done, including committing ourselves to ensure the success of the “Our Valpo” campaign. Everyone’s help will be crucial. Each person, in his or her own way, will contribute to the success of the next president.

VALPO: What are you feeling emotionally right now?

My primary concern is the next 12 months. I want the days to be positive and productive; we must not move into a malaise, but rather, we need to work through a year of potential and growth. There can be no easing off the oars because we have much to accomplish this year. I’m relying on everyone to remain engaged because I plan on staying focused until June 30, 2008.