Changing of the Guard
The 2004–05 year marked the end of one era at Rochester and the beginning of another. Thomas H. Jackson, who led the University for 11 years as president, stepped down on June 30, 2005.
Joel Seligman, formerly a professor and dean of the law school at Washington University in St. Louis, last December was named the 10th president in Rochester's history.
In meeting the Rochester community, Seligman said of Jackson, "It's hard to articulate how wonderful he's been as a mentor, how proud I am to be his successor, and what a great opportunity it is to build on the legacy he leaves to this University."
During his tenure, Jackson was credited with implementing the Renaissance Plan, which reduced the number of undergraduates in the College to create a greater sense of community; combining the College of Arts and Science with the College of Engineering and Applied Science into the College of Arts, Sciences, and Engineering; and expanding the Medical Center through a long-term strategic plan.
Seligman's tenure was formally celebrated with inauguration ceremonies in October 2005.
After a year's sabbatical, Jackson will assume a Distinguished University Professorship, teaching in the political science department and the Simon School. When he retires, the professorship will be renamed the Thomas H. Jackson Distinguished University Professorship.
