Willis receives fond farewell from EMU campus

Craig Willis was only at Eastern Michigan University one year. He was lauded as if he had been here 20.

Such was the outpouring of emotion for a man who, after inheriting a campus culture mired in controversy nearly a year ago, stabilized EMU's environment and did what he said he would do — set the table for incoming president John Fallon, who takes the EMU helm July 18.

EASTERN PRIDE: Eastern Michigan University President Craig Willis and his wife, Marilyn, admire the EMU letter jacket he was given by Interim Athletics Director Bob England. Willis and his wife were honored during a farewell reception in the McKenny Union Ballroom June 21. John Fallon, EMU's 21st president, takes the reins July 18.

Willis and his wife, Dr. Marilyn Willis, were feted during a farewell program in the McKenny Union Ballroom June 21. The two received "retirement" rocking chairs to enjoy the mountain view from their Pennsylvania home during retirement. President Willis also received an EMU letter jacket from the athletics department and was granted "honorary alumnus status" by the Board of Regents.

"I'm just so amazed to see so many people here and I was so touched when you stood up when I came in," Willis said and added, in his typical trademark humor, "You know, Marilyn, when I die, you need to put me on ice so you can charter some buses from here to my funeral."

Willis said his EMU journey has been characterized by two words: embracing opportunities. Those opportunities included reaching out to students, faculty staff, alumni and friends; focusing on critical programs, activities and services; and celebrating the University's strengths.

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