Illinois State Bids A Farewell To The University’s 19th President

NORMAL, Ill.-Illinois State honored former President Larry Dietz and his wife this past Friday. The celebration would have occurred in the spring but was postponed until the fall. Unlike other farewells, the 20^th installed president got to attend the event. President Terri Kinzy said it was an honor to celebrate her predecessor.

“This got delayed from the spring when it would have normally happened but we’re glad to wait until school’s back in session—everyone is here so they can have a proper farewell and a thank you,” said Kinzy. “I consider it a perk for me that I get to be a part of this.”

The 19^th president says that now is a better time than last year to celebrate his farewell because the world is at a different place than it was a semester ago. He also says that things are continuing to change but things are a bit more planful.

Students, faculty and staff came together to give gifts and wish the Dietz family well on their next journey in life. A brief ceremony followed with remarks and Dietz had a special moment to thank his community.

“I have been to a lot of these over the years for other people and it’s different when it’s for you. I am just humbled and grateful for people that want to come out and participate in this,” said Dietz.

Although Dietz’ time as president has come to an end, he expresses his excitement for President Kinzy. He says that he has spent time with the newly installed president and pledged to make her transition as smooth as possible.

“She is doing a terrific job. I think the board did a great job in selecting her to be the 20^th president,” said Dietz.

Kinzy also articulated her excitement of getting to be the 20^th president.

“Seeing students on campus—it just makes my heart sing. I see how excited our faculty and staff are to have our community back together and I expect we are really going to have a great year.”

The night before celebrating Dietz’ 10 years at Illinois State he received an award from a foundation that helps students who have had a hard upbringing to come to Illinois State University.