Chaminade University’s board of regents voted at its April 24 meeting to approve an extension of Marianist Brother Bernard Ploeger’s term as Chaminade’s president through June 30, 2017. Brother Ploeger also announced at the meeting that he did not intend to seek an extension beyond that date, which will mark more than eight years in the position.
Brother Ploeger said he made his announcement early with concern for the time it takes to recruit a new president.
“The time required to make a smooth transition has lengthened in recent years,” he said in a news release. “I believe it is important for the board and all involved to have the advance notice required to exercise care that will result in a successful selection process.”
The university president said he is pleased with what he has been able to accomplish up to this point and that there is much more to do.
“In the next two years, we have some tremendously ambitious projects to complete and I’m committed to making these last two the best years of my presidency,” he said.
Chaminade’s Board of Regents chairman Vaughn A. Vasconcellos praised Brother Ploeger’s tenure thus far.
“He has worked tirelessly to put the university on sound financial footing, raise the quality of our educational offerings, and renew and expand our facilities,” Vasconcellos said.
Brother Ploeger was appointed as president in March 2009 upon the death of his predecessor Sue Wesselkamper. Prior to that he had served the university in various leadership capacities for 15 years.