After More Than a Decade of Success
SHIRLEY WILLIHNGANZ has overseen great change since becoming UofL’s Executive Vice President and University Provost more than a decade ago.
A higher student profile. More national and international scholarship winners. Remarkable growth in resident students and in student services.
And most important to Willihnganz, a 60 percent boost in student graduation rates.
As Willihnganz steps down as provost this summer, she notes those accomplishments with pride — and with gratitude.
“It has been an honor to serve as provost, and I am proud of the tremendous growth we’ve seen during the past 13 years,” Willihnganz said. “Under Dr. James Ramsey’s leadership, UofL continues to reach new heights. I appreciate the opportunity I have had to contribute to that success.”
Willihnganz announced earlier this year that she would step down June 30. Following a sabbatical, she plans to return to teaching in 2016. A faculty member since 1985, she had served as acting provost from 2002 until her permanent appointment in 2004. She previously had served as Communication Department chair and as acting dean of the College of Arts and Sciences.
“Dr. Willihnganz has contributed so much to the success we’ve had,” Ramsey said. “Working with Shirley over the past 13 years has been the absolute highlight of my academic career of 30-plus years.
“Her leadership has been vital to our academic improvement, and her dedication to our students, faculty and staff is unsurpassed,” Ramsey said. “I am sorry to see her leave the leadership team, but our students will benefit from her return to the classroom.”
“It has been an honor to serve as provost, and I am proud of the tremendous growth we’ve seen during the past 13 years.”
–Dr. Willihnganz
