Ave Maria University's board of trustees announced today that Jim Towey will be the university's next president. Towey will be responsible for the day-to-day operations as president when his term begins on July 1, 2011. Thomas S. Monaghan, who currently serves as Chancellor and CEO of AMU will remain Chancellor, but will relinquish the responsibilities of CEO and hence the oversight of the daily operations of the university.
The board of trustees voted on the appointment of Towey at its regularly scheduled meeting earlier this week. Chairman of the board of trustees, Michael T. O. Timmis, made today's announcement on behalf of the board. Timmis praised the incredible vision of Monaghan and the solid foundation that he has set in place for AMU. He also talked about the confidence the board has that Towey is the right person for AMU at this stage of its development.
"This is a huge win for Ave Maria University," Timmis said. "We retain the vision and experience of our pioneers, while seamlessly handing over the reins to the next generation of leadership. It is the belief of the Trustees that Jim Towey is the most desirable Catholic university president in America today. And I am thrilled to announce that he is going to be our president."
Monaghan echoed Timmis' enthusiasm and addressed the opportunities presented by the new administrative structure.
"This decision was a result of ongoing discussions that I've had with the board throughout the last couple of years in terms of developing and implementing a succession plan," Monaghan said. "This new structure will enable me to spend more time working with university supporters both locally and nationally. It will also free me up to do more public speaking to promote awareness of AMU among high school students and potential benefactors. I'll also be able to work on some special projects and a book I have wanted to write for some time."
