Schools

Interim Pres. Brings 'Deep Knowledge of Drew'

Madison resident taught at school for 30 years, her husband taught there for 37 years, and her oldest son is president of the alumni association.

Hours before announced last Wednesday that Vivian Bull after President Robert Weisbuch steps down at the end of June, Bull met with Drew Student Government President Janelle Hoffman and Vice President Zack Mower.

"Dr. Bull is a highly experienced scholar and administrator, and we look forward to working with her next year," the governing body wrote on its Facebook page after the news officially was announced.

Linfield College, where Bull, a Madison resident, served as president for 13 years, posted, "Congratulations and well wishes, Dr. Bull on your new appointment."

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Several graduates posted their positive reactions on Drew's page.

Adam Carter wrote that Bull was "one of the most important mentors in my life" and "Drew is very fortunate to have you back."

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Bull, a former professor of economics at Drew for 30 years, was appointed by the university’s Board of Trustees to serve as president until a permanent successor is found. They charged her with leading Drew through the transition and "maintaining the forward momentum that began with the adoption" of the university's new strategic plan in February.

“Vivian brings a record of excellence in scholarship and leadership and a deep knowledge of Drew. She’s one of us,” John H. Crawford III, chairman of the university’s board of trustees, said. “But she also brings a wealth of experience from outside that will serve the entire community well as we work to implement our strategic plan and move the university forward.”

Drew's announcement noted Bull's longstanding ties to Drew, where in addition to her years teaching, her husband, Robert, retired professor of church history, taught for 37 years in the Theological School. Camper, her oldest son, graduated in 1991 and is president of the alumni association.

“I am deeply honored by this opportunity to give something back to Drew which both trained and nurtured me over many years,” Bull said.

“These are exciting and challenging times in higher education but Drew has a clear path for the future guided by the strategic plan. I am confident that, with the commitment and work of the entire Drew community, the university will continue to champion liberal arts, graduate and theological education in its own distinctive way. I look forward to being a part of Drew during this interim period.”

Bull is an active member of the United Methodist Church. She is currently working with its General Board of Higher Education and Ministry, where she chairs the investment committee, serves with the University Senate and is working with a new international education project.


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