February 13, 2009

Webster U. Names New President;

Elizabeth Stroble to lead university; Neil George named chancellor

Elizabeth Stroble, senior vice president from the University of Akron in Ohio, has been named the president of Webster University. She will begin her duties as the university’s 14th president on July 1.

Interim President Neil George, who with Stroble was considered for the presidency, has been named to the newly created position of chancellor.

Stroble, 57, holds a Ph.D. in curriculum and instruction from the University of Virginia, two master’s degrees from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, and a bachelor’s degree from Augustana College in Rock Island, Ill.

“I am inspired by what I have learned about Webster University. It is an honor to serve and lead an institution with a singular tradition of innovation and accomplishment, in Webster Groves and around the world,” Stroble said in a statement released by the university.

George, 68, will become the first chancellor in the university’s 94-year history. In that role, he will provide counsel to the president on matters of educational excellence, major capital projects, fundraising, and the general development and welfare of the university.

“Webster University is heading to a new level of global growth, and this is a critical time for our future. Dr. Stroble’s sterling credentials and demonstrated abilities as an academic leader, administrator, and educator are a great match for Webster,” said George H. Walker III, chair of the university’s board of trustees.

Walker went on to say that the role of chancellor will help maintain Webster’s success and momentum as an international campus.

“Neil George’s 30-plus years at Webster are a major reason for that momentum,” Walker said.

George joined the Webster University faculty in 1972, and has served in a number of leadership positions. George was named executive vice president and vice president for academic affairs in 1995.

“I am gratified for the opportunity to continue advising on the strategic vision of this multi-campus, international university and our commitment to global citizenship and individual excellence,” George said.

George was named interim president after Richard Meyers resigned his post last year. It was learned this week that Meyers will become the president of Fielding Graduate University — an online university in California based in Santa Barbara.

Benjamin Akande is the dean of the school of business and technology and a member of the presidential search committee. He describes Stroble as a prototype for the 21st century university president.

“Her passion for education, collaborative style of leadership, and commitment to academic excellence are assets that she brings to Webster University,” Akande said. “She will make us better.”