WTVM.com and WTVM News Leader 9, Columbus, GA | AU Faculty, Staff Share Thoughts On Richardson's Presidency

AU Faculty, Staff Share Thoughts On Richardson's Presidency

Friday was the final day on campus for Auburn University President Dr. Ed Richardson. After three and a half years at the helm, he'll hand over the top job to Dr. Jay Gogue Monday. Those who served under Richardson say the school is in great shape.

"Initiatives, lots of activities, lots of hard decisions he had to make throughout the three and a half years, and so I feel very, very glad. I was one of the people Dr. Richardson hired because I'm finishing my third year here," said Dr. Paul Bobrowski, dean of the College of Business.

His decisions haven't always been popular with everyone, but he's always done what he thought was best for Auburn.

"He has brought enormous energy to this position, determination and as one of our trustees, Paul Spina, sometimes refers to, a sense of urgency," said Dr. John Heilman, AU provost.

That urgency was best displayed when Richardson was hired to get Auburn off academic probation. That was accomplished just one year after taking office.

"If it had dragged on, then the presidential search would have dragged on. I also think it would've been difficult for us to move on the positive initiatives he's had," Heilman said.

Richardson also implemented a strong diversity plan, and Auburn is graduating more minorities than ever before. Especially in agriculture, engineering and math.

"Some of our departments on campus are now in the top 50 in producing undergraduate degrees," said Dr. Overtoun Jenda, associate provost of diversity.

Richardson has served 45 years in public education, and he retires this weekend.