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News Release

Last modified: Friday, October 11, 2002

Trustee President Eichhorn's comments

Thank you for being here today.

I would like to first acknowledge my fellow trustees who are joining us -- Sue Talbot, Pete Obremskey, Steve Backer, Jamie Belanger and Sacha Willsey.

This is both a sad and an exciting day in the history of Indiana University. We are, of course, sorry to be losing the leadership of a man who has accomplished many great things in his eight years as our president.

On Jan. 1, Myles Brand will leave Indiana University as a stronger institution than the one he took over as president. Our enrollment is at record levels. Our academic reputation remains a point of great pride. Through the generosity of our many friends and alumni, we have become the leading public university in private-sector support. Our scientists and researchers are doing more than ever to improve our state's economy and quality of life.

We are sorry to lose the services of such a strong leader, but we are excited about the opportunity that awaits him.

We also look forward to the next chapter in the life of an institution that means so much to me, my fellow trustees and to so many others around this state and around the world. We will soon begin the process of finding someone to continue IU's history of strong presidential leadership.

We have a university blessed with outstanding faculty and students, an experienced administrative team, and tens of thousands of enthusiastic and supportive alumni. I am confident that we will build on President Brand's accomplishments and continue to enhance our traditions.

Many of you will have specific questions about the process we are about to undertake. At this point, those details still must be determined. The IU Board of Trustees will meet in executive session on Wednesday to discuss how we will proceed regarding an interim appointment. We will continue to keep you fully informed of developments. Meanwhile, of course, we will benefit from the continued leadership of Myles Brand through the end of this year.

Jimmy Carter, the former U.S. president who was just named the winner of the Nobel Peace Prize, once said: "We must adjust to changing times and still hold to unchanging principles." Our faith in the principles that have made Indiana University such a great institution will continue to guide us in the weeks and months ahead.

Change is seldom easy, but it is often an opportunity. In that spirit, we will move forward. I will be happy to answer your questions.

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