Hood College President Ronald Volpe announced on Thursday that he will leave Hood at the end of the 2015 academic year. President Volpe was appointed as Hood’s 10th president in 2001. He wrote this letter to the Hood community:
Dear Hood College Family Members and Friends:
Today I informed the board of trustees that I have decided to step down as president at the end of the 2014-2015 academic year. This was a very difficult and emotional decision given my deep affection for Hood. I have had no more gratifying assignment in my life than serving as Hood’s president. I love this job; I love this institution and many individuals associated with it … especially our students who are the best in the world. However, leaving is inevitable.
I have dedicated 46 years of my life to educating women and men, and for more than 13 years have totally invested my heart and soul in leading Hood. After next year I will take a sabbatical, and then focus on my family and begin the next chapter of my life.
I am extremely proud of what Hood has achieved and so grateful for the tireless efforts made by the many constituents who also love this institution. Few college presidents will ever have the life-changing experience I enjoyed while serving as president. With the help of many, we transitioned the College to coeducation and realized record student enrollment; developed new academic, student and athletic programs; restored one of the most beautiful college campuses in the nation; expanded partnerships with the Frederick community; and traveled the country “telling the Hood story” and thanking alumni and friends for their generous support.
It is comforting to know that the vision I imagined upon arriving at Hood in 2001 was that one day the College would look very much like it looks today. Our strengthened finances and enrollment, campus additions, dedicated staff and faculty, loyal alumni and exceptional leadership from our board of trustees, board of associates and administration will provide a solid foundation for my successor. It is my firm belief that Hood is well positioned for greatness and the past decade of accomplishments is only prolog to a future filled with wonderful opportunities. Though challenges will always exist, the best is yet to come!
I offer my heartfelt thanks for extending me the privilege of leading this institution during historic times. It has been a very remarkable and humbling experience. I also thank you for affectionately welcoming me and my family into the Hood family. Lin, Stephanie and I will forever have Hood in our hearts and minds.
Finally, I will be on “overdrive” the coming year, leading Hood with the same degree of enthusiasm, energy and passion as I did my first year and providing for a smooth transition for my successor. I will be fully engaged in campus activities and meeting with friends and donors around the country personally thanking so many for their loyal support.
I am not saying goodbye just yet, so I will see you around campus.
Warmest regards,
Ronald J. Volpe, Ph.D.
President
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