LYNCHBURG, Va. – University of Lynchburg President Alison Morrison-Shetlar announced on Wednesday that she will retire following the expiration of her contract in June 2026. After five years as university president, Morrison-Shetlar said that it is time to pass the torch to a new voice.
In a statement that was released via email to the university, President Morrison-Shetlar wrote:
It is and has always been an immense privilege to work alongside so many incredible people, from our students who inspire me every day, to my colleagues who have made this work so rewarding. Thank you for your unwavering dedication, your partnership, and your trust. I look forward to the exciting things we will accomplish this year and the extraordinary future awaiting this Hornet community. Truly — onward and upward.
Morrison-Shetlar joined the university as president in August 2020, following the retirement of President Kenneth Garren. She became the 11th president of the university and the first female president in the school’s history. After over four decades of working in higher education, Morrison-Shetlar will end her professional career at Lynchburg.
“It’s the top of my career,” said Morrison-Shetlar about her tenure at Lynchburg. “To be the president of the University of Lynchburg has been just a joy.”
Morrison-Shetlar said that as she looks back on her time spent at Lynchburg, she wants to be known for the impact that she has had on the Hornet community.
“I want to be known for providing opportunities,” she noted. “I don’t need my name on a building to be able to say ‘I was here.’”
Julie Doyle, chair of the Board of Trustees, thanked President Morrison-Shetlar for her contributions and commitment to Lynchburg over the last five years, saying the following:
The Board of Trustees wants to thank President Alison for all she has done for the University for the past five years, and for the positive difference she will continue to make throughout this academic year and beyond.
President Alison has successfully led the university through a period of unprecedented change since her arrival on campus in August 2020. That has included:
- Navigating the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.
- Developing an innovative strategic plan.
- Transforming the university structure and business model.
- Improving our financial strength, including the launch of a $40 million comprehensive campaign.
- Advancing academic and athletic initiatives designed to position the University of Lynchburg for long-term success.
The Board of Trustees announced that they have partnered with the firm Isaacson, Miller to begin the search process for a new president.
Stay tuned to The Critograph for updates to the University of Lynchburg’s search for a new president.
