Monday, May 18, 2009

John R. Broderick selected as Old Dominion University's 8th President



The Board of Visitors today in a unanimous decision appointed John R. Broderick as the eighth president of Old Dominion University. Broderick, who has served as acting president since June 2008, was given a two-year contract effective May 18.

"Over the past year, John Broderick has deftly navigated Old Dominion University through a myriad of challenges and opportunities," said Board of Visitors Rector Ross Mugler. "His leadership through significant state budget reductions positioned the university in a more stable fiscal situation, and his implementation of a comprehensive enrollment management plan brought about a more strategic approach for ODU to increase the quality and rigor of its academics in the coming years."

Mugler added, "John impressed the board with his knowledge and experience leading ODU, his positive relationships with legislators, community leaders, faculty, students, alumni and donors, and his dedication and commitment to this university."

"I am honored that the Board of Visitors would place their confidence in me at this challenging, but exciting time in Old Dominion University's history," noted Broderick. "I pledge to continue to work hard, be creative, invite collaboration, and manage the intricate details to keep this university moving forward. I am excited to lead Old Dominion University into the future." (Read Broderick's full remarks to the Board at http://www.odu.edu/ao/news/index.php?todo=details&id=15948).

As acting president, Broderick has successfully guided the university's six colleges, more than 10 economic development and research centers, and numerous partnerships with government and business organizations and agencies. He oversees an operating budget of $411.6 million and more than 2,500 faculty and staff members.

"John has been a very effective voice for Old Dominion in government relations and his service as acting president has brought continued success to the university," said Gov. Timothy Kaine. "I know that ODU is in good hands and congratulate him on his most recent appointment."

Shortly after assuming the role of acting president, Broderick commissioned a university-wide enrollment management study that will result in the integration of all of Old Dominion's programs, practices, policies and planning to achieve optimal future enrollment and growth. The plan establishes institutional priorities and provides the basis on which to make decisions for the future of the university.

"This is a very good move by the Board of Visitors," said Paul Champagne, chair of ODU's Faculty Senate. "John Broderick has tremendous support across the campus. I'm looking forward to working with him, as are the Faculty Senate and the entire faculty."

"I am ecstatic that acting President Broderick will now be President Broderick," said Michelle R. Davis, ODU's 2008-09 student body president. "A particular quote by Donald McGannon comes to mind: 'Leadership is action, not position.' President Broderick is the epitome of action. He has proven that he will do all he can to ensure a bright future and excellent educational experience for the ODU student body."

During his tenure as acting president, Old Dominion drafted its 2009-2014 Strategic Plan, which will position the university to further develop its growing research reputation, enhance its residential campus, and strengthen its partnerships and contributions to the region.

Norfolk Mayor Paul Fraim said ODU's Board of Visitors made a clear and compelling commitment to the university's continuing role as a leader in the areas of economic development, research and education when it elected Broderick as the institution's new president.

"During his tenure as acting president, John clearly demonstrated that he has the skills, knowledge and ability to help the university meet the challenges of the future," Fraim said. "John's relationships with federal, state and local political, business and community leaders will be a major asset in the orderly growth of the university."

Tidewater Community College President Deborah DiCroce noted, "I am delighted with the appointment. Mr. Broderick is the right leader for the right time at Old Dominion University. I look forward to working with John on issues of mutual interest."

Prior to becoming acting president, Broderick served 12 years as vice president for institutional advancement and admissions, taking on the additional role of chief of staff to the president in 2003. His areas of responsibility included admissions, athletics, community relations, governmental relations, licensing, marketing, media relations, military affairs, photography, publications, student financial aid and university events.

In addition to his administrative duties, Broderick annually teaches graduate courses in the Darden College of Education.

He has been recognized for his contributions to higher education and the Hampton Roads community with the Virginia Center for Inclusive Communities' Humanitarian Award, the Urban League of Hampton Roads' Marian Palmer Capps Award and the College Communicators Association Distinguished Service Award. He was a finalist for the national PR News' Professional of the Year Award.

Throughout his career, Broderick has been actively engaged in numerous community and professional organizations. He currently is a board member of the Hampton Roads Partnership, Urban League and Virginia Beach Vision, and has served for many years as a youth soccer league coach in Chesapeake.

Prior to joining Old Dominion University in 1993, Broderick was a faculty member at the University of Pittsburgh and an administrator at St. Bonaventure University. He received a bachelor's degree from Northeastern University and a graduate degree from St. Bonaventure.

Broderick succeeds Roseann Runte, who stepped down last year to accept the position of president at Carleton University in Ottawa, Canada.

Read the ODU's blog at http://www.odu.edu/ao/president/blog/

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