Letter from the Goddard Board of Trustees

Dear members of Goddard College’s wide and deep community,

We write with news of recent events at Goddard and future directions for the college. Most of you will have heard by now that our president, Dr. Barbara Vacarr has resigned her presidency effective December 31, 2013.

The Board is saddened that her very pressing family health concerns determined her resignation. We are fully committed to ensuring an orderly transition of leadership. While we are aware of very difficult financial and enrolment challenges, and tensions and concerns among some members of the community, we are also aware that, as the recent editorial in the Times Argus paper put it:

“…Vacarr’s short time at the school has yielded noticeable and exciting results. The strides she has made at positioning the low-residency school for the future will ensure its sustainability as long as the board of directors hires someone like-minded and committed to the same path.”

The editorial further points out that Vacarr’s vision “has received national attention and praise.”

The board is committed to continuing the existing directions, progress and structures of the College, particularly the initiatives of the 5-year strategic plan that include, among others, diversification of revenue, cost reductions and containment, fundraising work, and support of existing and new academic initiatives.

We also want to inform all constituencies in Goddard’s community that the Board takes seriously its governance and fiduciary responsibilities and will ensure there is as seamless a transition as possible, and new leadership firmly in place by Jan 1, 2014.

The board is pleased to note recent efforts to strengthen dialogues with internal communities of administration, faculty, students, staff and alumni, and welcomes these dialogues as part of continuing Goddard’s strength during a time of leadership transition.

With an eye on Goddard’s 150th anniversary this October, we want to invite all alumni, friends and supporters near and far to join us for this memorable occasion. Goddard holds a unique role in higher education and we look forward to celebrating its past and its future with each of you.

For the Board of Trustees,
Tino O’Brien Vice Chair
Andy Leebron-Clay Chair