6/24/1974, Burlington Free Press

GODDARD TRUSTEES ACCEPT WITHERSPOON'S RESIGNATION

PLAINFIELD -- The Goddard College Board of Trustees Friday accepted the resignation of Gerald Witherspoon, president of the liberal arts college for the past five years.

According to Ben Collins, the college's director of development and information, Board Chairperson Lois Sontag directed the board to send Witherspoon a letter of appreciation. In addition, board members authorized formation of a search committee for a new president.

John Andrews, who has been acting president since Witherspoon left for an extended vacation abroad early this spring, will continue in that post. Andrews is former director of administration for Goddard.

Collins said the search committee will be composed of five board members - one a student trustee and one a faculty trustee. In addition, the faculty and students will each elect two members to the committee. The tenth committee member will be culled from the subordinate college staff.

Collins said Friday the search for Witherspoon's successor could take as long as a year, although he hoped it won't.

Search committee chairman is trustee Dr. Peter Pratt of Bridgewater, Conn.

When Witherspoon announced his resignation a little over a week ago, he said his successor will face difficulties in trying to retain the distinctive, innovative character of Goddard.

He said he was retiring because "the time seems appropriate for new leadership." Although he had not decided his future plans, Witherspoon indicated he might seek some kind of educational position.

During the remainder of this year, Witherspoon will serve as consultant for the college.