On April 23 I announced to the University community my intent to retire as of August 2004. By that time I will have served Syracuse University for 13 years and as a chief executive in higher education for 27 years. I can honestly say the last 13 years have been the very best and a capstone on a career as a leader that few of my fellow presidents and chancellors can claim.

As many of you know, when Mary Ann and I arrived on campus in August 1991, Syracuse University faced serious financial challenges. What we found was a community of dedicated men and women who had deep faith in their institution—despite serious fiscal concerns—and who were ready, willing, and able to work hard to not only deal with the problems, but to make the University even better.

More than a decade later, I could not be more pleased with the results. Syracuse University is a stronger, more focused institution. Faculty and staff have raised expectations for themselves and their students. Students have responded in kind. Our alumni and friends are more involved and more committed than ever to supporting their University.

In the immediate future, I plan to be intensely involved in the workings of the institution. I will focus on the Academic Plan, space planning, and fund raising—the keys to the University’s future. There is much to be done.

Then I will take a leave of absence for the 2004-05 academic year and return to teach and to assume other duties as assigned by the new Chancellor and the Board of Trustees. Mary Ann and I are devoted to the Central New York area and are happy to call it home.

I am deeply grateful to the thousands of people, including many readers of this magazine, who have helped make my term as Chancellor such a rewarding one. Their counsel, encouragement, expertise, camaraderie, and willingness to share have made the difference not only for me, but for this University.

Kenneth A. Shaw
Chancellor and President