VALPARAISO - President of Valparaiso University Mark Heckler is setting his sights on gaining a successor to replace him. Heckler has been president of VU for more than a decade.
According to the Valparaiso University website, Heckler announced on Thursday his recommendation to the Board of Directors that it begin the search process to identify the next President of Valparaiso University.
He told the board that it may take time to search, hire and effectively transition to the next president. Therefore, the process must begin now to ensure continuity of presidential leadership.
Heckler announced earlier Thursday to the campus community and alumni that with the rapid changes in the educational landscape, he wants to ensure that the next president has the strengths and skill set to address these challenges over the next five years and beyond.
Heckler has agreed to serve as president until such time a successor has been identified and is available to assume office.
Heckler assumed his position as the University’s 18th president in 2008.
Under Heckler’s leadership the Institute for Leadership and Service was created, and he commenced strategic efforts to add generosity to Valpo’s core of student development.
Heckler also created the Presidential Commission for an Inclusive Valparaiso Community (CIVIC), which serves to advance the initiatives Valparaiso University needs to implement its vision to become a more inclusive and equitable community.
Heckler has 40 years of experience as a professor and administrator.
Under his leadership a dozen new academic programs were launched, including physician assistant studies, bioengineering, business analytics, cyber security, data science, music therapy, supply chain and logistics, integrated business and engineering, and occupational therapy, and six new campus facilities have been constructed.
Heckler launched Valpo’s first ever endowment campaign, Forever Valpo: The Campaign for Our Future which has raised more than $215 million as of June 30, 2019.
