George Washington President to Step Down

WASHINGTON

      George Washington University President Stephen Joel Trachtenberg announced today his plans to step down when his contract expires in the summer of 2007.

      Trachtenberg, president since 1988, will become a professor of public service and president emeritus of the university. GW will begin its search for a new president in the coming months.

      “After almost two decades at the helm, it is time for me to contribute to this great university in a different way and to work toward some personal goals that are impossible to achieve with the 24/7 demands of the presidency,” says Trachtenberg. “Serving as head of this special university has had my undivided attention for nearly 20 years. I’m now exchanging my first love for my second; it’s the American thing to do. I want to test the hypothesis that those who can do — can also teach.”

      “I expect to study where American universities are headed in the 21st century and examine everything from a three-year B.A. and a year-round curriculum, to liberal arts degree requirements,” says Trachtenberg, adding that he also plans to write books.

      During his tenure, the SAT scores of entering students rose 200 points; undergraduate admissions applications rose from 6,000 to 20,000 per year and the endowment rose from $200 million to $1 billion. Five new schools were created, including Public Policy and Public Administration and the Graduate School of Political Management. 

— Staff reports

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