Walter Harrison, president of the University of Hartford, has announced his retirement. He had indicated back in 2012 when he signed a five-year contract that he believed it would be his last.
When he retires in June 2017, Harrison, 69, will have served as the University’s president for 19 years. A search committee to find his replacement will start its work in the spring. It will be chaired by Regent Kathy Behrens, who is president of social responsibility and player programs for the NBA.
“Many friends tell me that being a university president is the most stressful position they can think of, but I must tell you that as I look back on the last 17 ½ years I recall only the joy I have felt and my continuing gratitude for serving the University,” Harrison said in a letter to the campus community.
Harrison also made a brief video announcement that is available on the university’s social media and YouTube channel.
Harrison has served as university president since July 1, 1998. During that time the West Hartford university has improved its academics, finances and fundraising. New academic programs in technology, engineering, health sciences, and other areas have been added during his tenure.
He has been active nationally as a leader in the NCAA. Harrison is the 2015 recipient of the NCAA President’s Gerald R. Ford Award for his work to improve the academic success of student-athletes. He became a member of the Knight Commission on Intercollegiate Athletics in 2015.
