As faculty members across campus opened their emails Thursday morning, they were greeted by one from President Bill Perry – and his intent to not extend his contract past June 2015.

Joe Dively, the Board of Trustees chairman, said the board would “reluctantly” accept Perry’s decision.

“We do appreciate the notice Dr. Perry has given, so that we have the time to find the right individual as EIU’s 11th president,” he said in a press release.

Dively also said in the release that the timing of Perry’s stepping down will allow the university to complete a comprehensive program review begun earlier this year.

“Dr. Perry has created an atmosphere of excellence and helped lead the university to become more student-focused than ever,” Dively said. “He has been a hard-working leader and his shoes will be hard to fill.”

Grant Sterling, the Faculty Senate chairperson, said he had not quite “digested the news” after reading the email.

“He’s a terrific president,” he said.

However, Sterling said it would present problems given the recent budget cuts and reallocations the Council of University Planning and Budget are required to recommend to the Board of Trustees.

He said it might have people concerned, especially if the new president does not want to go down the route of budget cutting. It would not amount to anything then, Sterling said.

Anita Shelton, the history department chair, said she was sorry, but not surprised to read that Perry had decided not to renew his contract.

“Eight years is a long tenure in a job that is so demanding, even in the best of times, which these are not,” she said. “I think we would all thank him for his dedication to EIU and wish him all the best in his future pursuits.”

David Carwell, a political science professor, said he was surprised by Perry’s announcement.

“But, I suppose that’s the nature of administrators,” he said.

Looking to the future, Carwell said all anybody could do was speculate.

Dan Nadler, the vice president for student affairs, said, while he was sad to see Perry step down, he also realizes Perry deserves an opportunity to spend more time with his family and friends.

“President Perry maintains a very ambitious schedule that requires many late nights, busy weekends and travel throughout the state and region,” he said.

Nadler also said Perry, during his tenure so far, has “demonstrated great concern for our students.”

“He cares deeply about our students including their academic, personal and professional aspirations,” he said.

While the day Perry leaves will be a sad one, Nadler said in the meantime there is important work to accomplish.

“I look forward to building a stronger EIU for our students, faculty, staff, alumni and friends,” Nadler said.

Bob Galuski can be reached at 581-2812 or dennewsdesk@gmail.com.