May. 17, 2021
CWU Board of Trustees Praise Tenure of President James L. Gaudino
Central Washington University’s Board of Trustees (BOT) applauded the university’s outgoing president, James L. Gaudino, for his vision and leadership during his 12 years as the school’s chief executive officer. The May 14 quarterly board meeting was Gaudino’s last formal appearance before the board.
Gaudino announced last year he was stepping down from his position, which he assumed in 2009. His last day will be June 6, with his successor, James Wohlpart, assuming his duties on June 7.
“It has been a distinct pleasure to work with Jim, in my case, for 11 years,” said BOT Chair Ron Erickson. “Jim, I want to thank you for everything you’ve done for this university. I want to thank you personally and on behalf of the Board of Trustees. You’ve made a real difference to Central, to the broad Central community.”
Erickson said he knew Gaudino “by your nature” did not want any type of celebratory undertaking to mark the end of his tenure but he wanted to offer his “heartfelt thanks” for all that Gaudino had done for the institution.
“Your vision is so contagious and so exciting that it really pulled me into the service of the university,” noted Board member Gladys Gillis. She said his bold leadership had positioned the university for success for years to come.
BOT Vice chair Robert Nellams echoed other board members and said, “It has been a gracious and glorious ride and we all appreciate the fact we have been able to do it with you.”
Gaudino thanked the board for their remarks.
“It’s been more of a pleasure on my side,” Gaudino said. “It’s been a delight to work with every board. The commitment to Central and the support that I have felt have been unwavering and I thank you.”
Media contact: Linda Schactler, chief of staff and secretary to the board, 509-607-4103 and schactler@cwu.edu.