The full text of the proclamation:
WHEREAS D. Merrill Ewert, who became President of Fresno Pacific University in June 2002 after a career at Wheaton College, the University of Maryland, and Cornell University, will retire July 31, 2012; and
WHEREAS Under President Ewert, emphasis on degree completion has been the engine that has driven enrollment from approximately 1,600 students in 2003 to approximately 3,600 in 2012; and
WHEREAS One of President Ewert's major goals has been to engage Fresno Pacific University in the surrounding region, resulting in a 35 percent increase of board members who represent nearby communities and community organizations; and
WHEREAS Dr. Ewert and his wife, Priscilla, have been ardent supporters of the ever-expanding academic programs, music ensembles, and sports teams at Fresno Pacific University, and have impacted many lives through their investment in, availability to, and connection with students and faculty; and
WHEREAS "Transformational" is the one word President Ewert uses to capture the essence of Fresno Pacific University—"Lives are transformed here, and that gives meaning purpose to the call that brought Priscilla and me to Fresno Pacific."
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Fresno County Board of Supervisors hereby honors D. Merrill Ewert, President of Fresno Pacific University, on the occasion of his retirement and expresses appreciation for his leadership of the university and his involvement in local civic boards and educational organizations.
ADOPTED BY THE FRESNO COUNTY BOARD OF SUPERVISORS THIS 5TH DAY OF JUNE 2012
Hear the ceremony at: news.fresno.edu/sites/news.fresno.edu/files/06-05-12-begin-thru-item-3.mp3