Whitman College President George Bridges has announced that he will step down from the job in the summer of 2015, which will mark the 10-year anniversary of his appointment as president of the small Walla Walla liberal arts college.
During his tenure, the former University of Washington dean increased the number of tenure-track faculty positions, and the racial and ethnic diversity of the student body, according to the college. Bridges also launched a global studies initiative, created programs to advance innovation in teaching in learning, increased student involvement in faculty research and started planning a new major in computer science.
The date of his departure — June 30, 2015 — will also mark the end of the college’s $150 million fundraising campaign.
In a letter sent to alumni Wednesday, Bridges said that he and his wife Kari had no immediate plans, but that they are considering many options.