"This place is a family, and I am so proud of Lambuth University’s faculty and staff,” began Mike Keeney, Chairman of the school’s Board of Trustees, as he addressed an October 16 press conference called to introduce Lambuth’s new president. 

 

“This past year, we’ve faced some tough obstacles, but our faculty and staff have remained committed to our students,” he said with pride.

 

Describing a “lengthy process” of contacting and interviewing candidates to lead the university, Keeney then welcomed Dr. Bill Seymour, the board’s choice as new Lambuth University president. “Dr. Seymour exhibits a passion for small colleges,” said Keeney.

 

“I’m proud to be a Lambuth Eagle,” Seymour said, as he took the podium. And if the team needs another player, he joked that “there’s still some life left in my knees!”

 

Getting down to business, he described a plan to work on Lambuth’s enrollment, finances, and facilities. “We’ll begin with a strategic planning process... look down the road for the next couple of years.”

 

In response to a question about what he considered to be his greatest challenge at Lambuth, he said, “First, I need to go through an orientation, hear about issues, hopes and dreams.

 

“A lot happened last year,” he continued. “We need to reassess where we are now and plan ahead–not just deal with the ‘here and now’.”

 

He listed several areas that will get his full attention: admissions and fund-raising.

 

He added that he has full confidence the school will thrive.

 

Dr. Seymour stressed how highly important he considers the connection of Lambuth with the United Methodist Church.

 

“The Church can be helpful to the success of the institution,” he said, “both financially and by recruiting students.”

 

“I feel Lambuth is a great fit for me,” he concluded.

 

Seymour and his wife Catherine expect to transition to Jackson over the next few weeks. He will be full time November 16.