It was a sad day on the Hill as trustees, faculty and staff bid farewell to Dr. Debra Townsley and acknowledged her 12 years of service as president of Nichols College and 13+ years of leadership.
Quoting Dr. Seuss, host Rick Woods, director of human resources, said: "Don’t cry because it’s over. Smile because it happened." He then presented her a campus gift, a photograph framed with wood from a copper beech tree which once stood on Center Road.
Interim President Gerald Fels thanked Dr. Townsley for her many years of service and noted the significant campus improvements. Trustees and trustees emeritus attending the outdoor feast of lobster and clams prepared by Sodexo Dining Services, included: Constantine Alexander; Randy Becker; Dr. Jim Conrad; John Davis; Richard Hardy; Robbie Munce; Lovette Peters.
Husband Dr. Michael Townsley, daughter Jenna Murphy and son Jaron Murphy were on hand as President Townsley gave her tearful farewell. In May, Townsley announced her resignation to be president of Peace College in Raleigh, N.C.