TERRE HAUTE, Ind. (WTWO/WAWV) — It’s official, Indiana State University’s next president is Dr. Mike Godard.
Friday morning Trustees officially approved the employment agreement for the incoming president. Godard will officially assume the role on June 1, following the retirement of the university’s 12th president, Dr. Deborah Curtis.
A search committee of 20 people had to filter through around 80 candidates before landing on Godard. However, Board of Trustees Chair Robert Casey said they found a perfect fit ahead of schedule.
“We have tremendous confidence,” he said. “the trustees felt strongly that he is the right choice at this time in history for Indiana State University. He brings a very well-rounded and progressively more responsible leadership position in his career.”
Godard most recently filled the role of Provost at Southeast Missouri State University in Cape Girardeau, Missouri. He brings 25 years of experience in higher education to the role.
Godard was in attendance at Friday’s Board of Trustees meeting and said he hopes to ensure every student feels welcome on campus.
“We will work together to innovate and adapt, ensuring that our academic programs and campus life are not only responsive to our student’s needs but also proactive in helping them achieve their full potential,” Dr. Godard said. “We will also continue to build on our efforts to ensure inclusivity and accessibility for every member of our campus community. Every student, faculty, and staff from every background should feel valued and empowered to contribute their unique perspectives and talents.”
Godard will soon move to the area after accepting the job along with his wife Kathryn.
“Kathryn and I look forward to relocating to Terre Haute and deepening our ties in the community and throughout Vigo County and West Central Indiana,” Dr. Godard said. “We look forward to meeting the many faces of ISU, including students, faculty, staff, alumni, donors, legislative leaders, and other friends of the University as quickly as possible.”
Dr. Godard has a PhD in Human Bioenergetics from Ball State University, a master’s in
exercise physiology from Adelphi University, and a bachelor’s in exercise science from
Castleton University.
As the university begins to look to the future, Chair of ISU’s Board of Trustees Robert Casey thanked outgoing President Curtis for her efforts in leading as the school’s first female president.
“We are deeply thankful for President Curtis’ leadership and contributions to Indiana
State University,” said Trustee Casey. “Additionally, I want to thank the presidential
search committee for their hard work in selecting the best candidate to lead ISU into the
future.”
Dr. Curtis said she is confident that Dr. Godard will be a good fit for the university moving forward.
“Serving as the 12th president of Indiana State University has been an honor of my
career,” said Dr. Curtis. “The university has played a critical role in my career, and serving as president has allowed me to give back to a place I sincerely love. Indiana State
holds a special place in my heart, and I am confident that Dr. Godard will successfully
guide the university into its next chapter.”
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