Craig Willis named interim president of EMU

The Eastern Michigan University Board of Regents approved the appointment of Dr. Craig Dean Willis as interim President of the University. Willis, who recently retired as president of Lock Haven University in Lock Haven, Pennsylvania, will begin his term August 16. 

WILLIS TAKES THE HELM: Craig Dean Willis, who just retired after 22 years as president of Lock Haven University, will become EMU's interim president Aug. 16.

The announcement came at a special meeting of the Board Aug. 4.

"Dr. Willis is known for his strong and steady leadership, his integrity and his ability to bring diverse perspectives together," said Karen Valvo, vice-chair of the EMU Board of Regents and chair of the Board's search committee. "We are confident that he is the right man for the job at this critical time in the University's history. We very much look forward to his leadership in helping to successfully resolve the issues that have divided the EMU community in recent months."

In a separate action, the board also approved the immediate appointment of Don Loppnow to the position of acting president, where he will serve until Willis arrives. Loppnow has served as senior executive for Strategic Planning and Continuous Improvement since 2002.  He also heads up the University Strategic Planning Committee.

More on this story...