WMU News

Floyd takes helm on Aug. 1

July 29, 1998

KALAMAZOO -- Elson S. Floyd begins his first official day at work as Western Michigan University's sixth president Monday, Aug. 3, with an informal morning news conference and a live interactive videoconference.

Floyd takes office as WMU president on Saturday, Aug. 1, succeeding Dr. Diether H. Haenicke who is returning to the faculty after 13 years as the University's leader.

The videoconference, which will originate from the Fetzer Center at noon, will give invited alumni and University friends in seven cities a chance to see and talk to Floyd using compressed video technology. The videoconference sites are located in Battle Creek, Chicago, Detroit, Grand Rapids, Holland, Lansing and St. Joseph.

Floyd came to WMU from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill where he served as the executive vice chancellor since 1995.

Floyd started his career at UNC in 1978 as assistant dean for student life and judicial programs officer and went on to hold several positions, including assistant dean for the Division of Student Affairs, the General College and the College of Arts and Sciences; and associate dean for academic services. From 1988 to 1990, Floyd was assistant vice president for student services for the UNC System.

In 1990, he joined Eastern Washington University as vice president for student services. At EWU, he served a year each as vice president for administration and executive vice president. He then spent two years as executive director of the Washington State Higher Education Coordinating Board until returning to UNC.

Floyd is involved in civic and professional associations including Rotary International, the United Way of America, the National Association of Student Personnel Administrators, the Association for the Study of Higher Education, and the Education Commissions of the States. He continues to write, present and speak professionally.

Floyd earned a bachelor's degree in political science and speech, a master's degree in adult education, and a doctoral degree in higher and adult education, all from UNC.

Floyd and his wife have two children.

Media contact: Matt Kurz, 616 387-8400, matt.kurz@wmich.edu


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