FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 29, 2008
News
"Brent's commitment, tenacity, inclusiveness and empowerment have shaped the college into what it is today," said Tom Morrison, Chairman of the Board. "He has set the stage for a new chapter in the life of the college and we’re well positioned to take those next steps."
Over the years DeVore has become known as the "dean" of higher education in Central Ohio for his tenure amongst his peers. He is regularly tapped for comments about the higher education industry throughout the nation and serves on multiple boards and higher education associations in the United States.
He has brought much leadership and change to the college since 1984 including regionalizing admissions and improving retention rates; introducing Continuing Studies for adults and graduate programs in Education, Nursing and Business. During his 25-year tenure, enrollment has nearly doubled to 3,107, the endowment has increased from $6 million to $100 million, faculty with terminal degrees have increased from 45% to 93%, a dozen student support and academic facilities have been renovated or constructed and land acquisition has nearly doubled the size of the campus.
Community Service among its students and staff has increased to over 32,000 hours being donated annually and 83 service learning courses offered. In recognition for his service on the boards of 23 national and local non profit organizations totaling over 37 years, DeVore was presented with the President’s Call to Service Award for Lifetime Achievement from the Corporation for National and Community Service in June, 2007 at the Otterbein College commencement ceremony.
"Brent has led this college for over two decades and has left his mark on many programs, facilities and most importantly, people," said Morrison. "We will take this time to conduct an exhaustive search for his successor who will guide the college in the 21st century and help us fine tune and implement the strategic plan initiatives."