Shahan Soghikian ’80
Dear Members of the Pitzer College Community,
On behalf of the Pitzer Presidential Transition Committee, I am pleased to update you on the formation of the Committee, its mission and the outcomes of its first meeting.
In March, the Board of Trustees formed a committee, led by Interim Vice President for Academic Affairs and Dean of Faculty Nigel Boyle, to begin a process of discovery, prioritization and planning to support Dr. Melvin L. Oliver as he begins Pitzer’s sixth presidency.
A complete listing of the Presidential Transition Committee is available here.
Last week, the Presidential Transition Committee convened for its first meeting via teleconference. The Committee agreed on the following description of its mission.
MISSION – Presidential Transition Committee
- Develop a calendar of meetings and events that will help President-designate Melvin Oliver forge important relationships early in his term.
- Provide the President-designate with information regarding Pitzer’s mission, issues and priorities in each College constituency – faculty, students, alumni, trustees, staff, and local community. Each constituent group will submit their proposed calendar for integration with a merged calendar, which will form the basis of a prioritization process.
- Organize a campus welcome reception schedule, including formal inauguration event and prioritized list of engagement opportunities for Dr. and Mrs. Oliver.
Consistent with Pitzer’s tradition of inclusiveness and shared governance, the Committee encourages input into this process by faculty, students, staff and alumni. Please feel free to share your thoughts and comments with a committee member so they can be incorporated into the Committee’s next meeting.
On behalf of the Board of Trustees, I thank you for your continued support as we undertake this vitally important transition for Pitzer’s sixth president.
Sincerely,
Shahan Soghikian ’80, Chair
Pitzer College Board of Trustees
