Chancellor Jim Woodward’s farewell reception was held at the Talley Student Center Tuesday afternoon. Woodward, who stepped in as interim Chancellor on June 9th, 2009, was honored for his service and devotion to the University. 

Lawrence Davenport, Chairmen of the Board of Trustees, said the Chancellor had made noticeable changes to the University in his term. 

“Over the past nine months, he [Chancellor Woodward] has dedicated time and hard work to serve the needs of this University,” Davenport said.  “His foresight and tenacity have led to the initiation of a number of projects, two examples being the expansion of Talley Student Center and the renovation of the Chancellor’s house.”

Marycobb Randall, Student Center’s President, also spoke of Chancellor Woodward’s contributions to NC State.

“Chancellor Woodward’s presence was definitely felt here on campus, whether he was serving students in the brickyard, participating in lectures in the college of management, or taking time to meet with students one on one about issues relevant to our campus,” Randall said.

Woodward spoke at the reception, thanking those who had helped him during his short tenure at the University. He said N.C. State is an essential part of the City of Raleigh and to the overall development of the state.

In an interview with Dave Pond, a member of University Web Communications, Woodward said it was important during his term to return the focus of the University to education.

“We brought back an internal environment that was supportive of our people doing their work, and that returned very quickly here,” Woodward said. “That was the most important achievement, because this university is here for core purposes – that’s teaching, research and service – and if the people who do those tasks devote themselves totally to those tasks, then our university will have better served the state of North Carolina.”

Woodward said he looks forward to sending more time with his grandchildren following his term. 

“We’ve got a trip lined up the last week of June and the first week of July on the Isle of Mull [an island located northwest of Scotland],” Woodward said.

Woodward served as chancellor of UNC- Charlotte from 1989 to 2005. He said he was still committed to assisting the UNC School System. 

“Well, I’m on twelve boards, so no, I’m involved,” Woodward said.

Woodward said he will always continue his loyalty to the University.

“I will always be a member of the Wolfpack”, he said. “I even have my red blazer.”