Source – www.technicianonline.com
Chancellor Randy Woodson to Retire in 2025
RALEIGH, N.C. (WTVD) — North Carolina State University will soon be in search of a new leader as Chancellor Randy Woodson has announced his plans to retire on June 30, 2025. Woodson shared the news during a regular meeting of the NC State Board of Trustees at the Park Alumni Center on Thursday afternoon.
Woodson, who has served as the university’s 14th chancellor since April 2010, is recognized for his significant contributions to NC State’s growth and development over the past 14 years. “For 14 years, Randy Woodson has perfectly captured the pragmatic brilliance of NC State,” said UNC System President Peter Hans. “Like the university he leads, Randy is sharp, good-natured, and eager to get things done for North Carolina. It’s made him a great colleague and one of the most effective leaders in this state.”
Under Woodson’s leadership, NC State saw considerable advancements in its influence, infrastructure, and reputation. His tenure also brought improvements in graduation and retention rates, solidifying the university’s status as a leading public research institution.
Senator Thom Tillis praised Woodson’s impact, stating, “Under Chancellor Randy Woodson’s visionary leadership, North Carolina State University has transformed into one of our nation’s preeminent public research universities. Chancellor Woodson will leave a lasting legacy of innovation and success, and I want to thank him for his steadfast dedication to advancing knowledge and enriching the lives of countless individuals in North Carolina and beyond through his service to the NC State community.”
Background and Legacy of Woodson’s Leadership
At 67, Woodson’s upcoming retirement marks the end of an exceptionally long tenure for a university chancellor. Prior to his role at NC State, Woodson was an internationally acclaimed plant molecular biologist specializing in agricultural crop reproductive processes. He also held positions as provost and vice chancellor at Purdue University.
His extensive background in academia and research has significantly contributed to NC State’s advancements and reputation. Woodson’s retirement plans are set to trigger a search for a new chancellor who will continue to build upon his legacy.
University Leadership Changes Across North Carolina
Woodson’s retirement announcement comes amid a period of considerable flux in higher education leadership across North Carolina. Kevin Guskiewicz, formerly at the University of North Carolina, recently transitioned to the presidency at Michigan State University. Lee Roberts has stepped in as interim chancellor at UNC, though a permanent replacement has yet to be named.
North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University (NC A&T) has also recently undergone a leadership change. After Chancellor Harold L. Martin announced his retirement in September, James Martin II was appointed as the new chancellor in late June. Martin succeeds Martin, who had led NC A&T for 15 years.
Similarly, North Carolina Central University appointed Dr. Karrie G. Dixon as its new chancellor on June 6. Dixon previously served as chancellor at Elizabeth City State University, which has now appointed Dr. Catherine Edmonds as interim chancellor.
Winston-Salem State University saw Bonita J. Brown take office as its new chancellor in May, beginning her term on July 1. She succeeded Interim Chancellor Anthony Graham and former Chancellor Elwood Robinson, who retired in 2023.
Further west, Appalachian State University experienced a change in leadership when Chancellor Sheri Everts stepped down in April due to health reasons. Dr. Heather Hulburt Norris was appointed as interim chancellor following Everts’ departure.
As North Carolina State University prepares for the transition to a new chancellor, it will be navigating this period of change alongside other universities in the state, each adapting to its own leadership shifts and future plans.
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