Farewell, Don Loppnow

I think this was something that was probably coming for a while now, but Provost Don Loppnow made it official in a letter sent out to EMU folks yesterday: he is stepping down as provost this coming May and, after a year off, he’ll wrap up his career in the classroom. By the way, this “retooling/sabbatical” year is standard stuff for administrators who have been out of the classroom for a long time, and it seems perfectly reasonable to me.

When I was a student, I never even knew what a Provost was; as a faculty person, I think it’s fair to say that the Provost and the associated staff pretty much run the academic side of things. So given that– along with the fact that Loppnow has been around EMU for a LOOONNNG time and has occupied some key roles in his time here– his stepping down is definitely a pivotal moment at EMU.

I’m not sure if President Martin is going to begin a search for a new Provost right away, if there is going to be an interim, or if she’s just going to appoint someone. My hope is that she chooses the first option since interims can be problematic and it would go over quite poorly with faculty and staff at EMU if she just picked someone. Don’s letter is after the “Read More” part.

Dear University Community:

Some time ago I shared my career timeline with President Martin and we have been discussing the specifics and options. This is to communicate a professional career change that I have decided to make. Many of you know that my career plans have been to eventually leave administration and return to the faculty. I’d like to finish my career in the classroom where I began my journey in higher education. Interacting with students is energizing and enjoyable.

In consultation with President Martin, I intend to step down as Provost and Executive Vice President to pursue a professional development leave with the goal of returning to the classroom. This change will take place at the end of winter semester (May 1). I appreciate President Martin’s support.

During my years at EMU, I have been privileged to serve in a number of leadership roles. This has been invigorating for me. What I treasure most are the people who make up our university community, and the alumni and friends of the University with whom I’ve had the opportunity to work. Together you create a rich intellectual and social environment.

I would like to especially thank the deans, department heads, school directors, faculty leaders, student leaders, members of the SOC, and directors and staff in academic affairs and other divisions. I hope to have time to thank you personally as the semester progresses. Most of all, I want to share my heartfelt appreciation and admiration for the staff in the Provost’s Office. You are wonderful professionals who are totally dedicated and have been unwavering in your support of EMU and me.

With gratitude,

Don Loppnow, Provost
and Executive Vice President