The president of St. Bonaventure University has announced plans to step down and retire. Sr. Margaret Carney said she will be leaving July 31st. WBFO's Focus on Education Reporter Eileen Buckley spoke with St. Bonaventure President Sister Margaret Carney who says it is 'critical' that a new leader be in place to carry out new the multi-year set of strategies.
Carney has worked at St. Bona nearly 20-years, the last 12-as president. In a WBFO News interview Carney said she is leaving as the school is in the process of finalizing a new strategic plan.
"I have been thinking about this for a while," said Carney. "The University community is developing a strategic plan with a very excellent process. That plan will be finished by June and certainly approved by September. I believe it's critical to have a new executive in place who can commit to carry that plan through."
Carney noted the new, multi-strategy plan will need financial assistance and expects a capital campaign to follow.
"I want the university to have an executive who can make multi-year commitment and be able to see it through," stated Carney.
Board of Trustees Chair Robert Daugherty, retired partner with PricewaterhouseCoopers, lauded Sr. Carney’s service.
“Words cannot begin to express the gratitude and respect the Board of Trustees has for this remarkable leader. Sr. Margaret’s esteemed tenure took this university from a dark hour to a place in the sun; a place of honor and academic excellence. SBU graduates the world over, our faculty, staff and students, and our regional communities are forever indebted to her. She stands as a hallmark of the Franciscan spirit and ethical character of this great university.”
The board will begin a search process to appoint a new leader, but Carney is expected to be part of the transition.
"I fully want to help the new president, my successor," explained Carney. "We have 27,000 alumni and just helping perhaps introduce that person to some of the folks who've been the most helpful and participative in our work here, will be something I'll be very happy to do."
Carney turns 75-in July as she leaves the University. Carney said she is planning to take a sabbatical, but noted as a Franciscan nun, she isn't planning to completely retire. Carney tells WBFO she expects to return to teaching history and theology.
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