Truman State University President Resigns

KIRKSVILLE, Mo.- In a joint statement from the Truman State University Board of Governors and University President Barbara Dixon, Chair of the Board Mark Wasinger announced today that they have accepted the resignation of Dixon, effective at the close of business Oct. 15, 2008. The Board and the president have been in conversation for the past three months regarding the goals and expectations for the future and recently concluded that it is unlikely they will arrive at a mutually satisfactory agreement.
    "Our talks have been professional and friendly, but given our differences, I believe at this point that it is in everyone's best interest that I step down from my position," Dixon said. "I recognize the timing is not optimal, but appreciate the Board's consideration in accepting my resignation at this time."
    In accepting the resignation of Dixon, Wasinger noted: "President Dixon has accomplished a great deal during her tenure as University President for which we are grateful. Under her guidance and leadership, the University has shown significant progress in many areas. She has demonstrated courage and perseverance in discharging her duties as President of Truman State University. Most assuredly, she will excel in any future endeavors and the Board wishes her well."
    Areas in which the University has shown significant progress are facilities improvement, advancement/fundraising including launching the first comprehensive campaign, academic reorganization that established academic departments with faculty chairs, enhancement of faculty salaries, and several outstanding hires of senior administrative staff. Other areas where Dixon has made an impact include the creation of a Staff Council, and most recently the development of a classification/compensation system for all non-faculty positions that will provide better market equity and promotional opportunities for staff.
    In her five years at Truman, Dixon has been selected by her colleagues to serve in several leadership positions including president of Missouri Council on Public Higher Education from 2005-2007, president of the Council of Public Liberal Arts Colleges from 2005-2007, and currently as an at-large member of the NCAA Division II President's Council.
    The Board of Governors announced that it would immediately seek the appointment of an interim president while embarking upon a search for Dixon's replacement.