Texas Lutheran University President Resigns
Texas Lutheran University President Ann Svennungsen will leave the school "for new roles in higher education and church leadership," according to an announcement Tuesday.
Svennungsen, TLU reported, cited professional and personal considerations as factors in her decision.
"The past three years have been a wonderful calling and energizing commitment," said Svennungsen, who joined TLU in July 2007.
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"This decision is a difficult one for me and for my family, because TLU has become 'home' to us in many ways. But I know how much TLU respects the call to service in its many forms, and I will carry with me the memories of what we have achieved here, together," she added.
Under Svennungsen, TLU developed its "Boldly Investing in Lives of Purpose" plan as well as its new master plan. Svennungsen also helped in facilitating the process of shared governance with faculty members; recruiting and hiring a new head football coach to rebuild the TLU football team; and developing stronger relationships with Lutheran congregations.
"Ann's caring, open manner forged a positive relationship with students, faculty, staff, alumni, donors and the Seguin community," commented TLU Board Chair Robin A. Melvin in the school's announcement Tuesday. "We will always be grateful to Ann for her many gifts, and we wish her the very best in what we know will continue to be a successful and fulfilling career."
In light of Svennungsen's decision, the Board of Regents' Executive Committee will assume the responsibilities of the president while the search for an intentional interim president is underway.
Once the interim position is filled, the Board Chair will convene a formal search committee to select a new president.
In her comments Tuesday, Svennungsen said TLU "is strongly positioned to thrive on the foundation of the strategic and master plans and the strength of its community."
"I look forward to watching and celebrating the university's future progress," she concluded.
TLU, located in Seguin, Texas, is affiliated with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.
