RUTLAND—After nearly two years of accomplishment in leading College of St. Joseph, President Lawrence G. Jensen has announced that he plans to retire. Jensen, who became interim president in 2016 and was named the College’s sixth president in 2017, made the announcement to faculty and staff on Tuesday, Feb. 27.
“It has been a wonderful privilege and an honor to serve as president of College of St. Joseph,” Jensen said. “CSJ is a special place, and it has been gratifying to work alongside the faculty and staff that dedicate their careers to providing a first-rate education and opportunity to so many students.”
Jensen, 74, who had previously served on the Board of Trustees, took over as president following the departure of Dr. Richard Lloyd, who left CSJ in 2016 to become president of Bryan College of Health Sciences in Lincoln, NE. Jensen was previously the Chair of the College’s Board of Trustees.
Under Jensen’s leadership, the College has made substantial progress toward its long-term goals, including the implementation of a new strategic plan, an exceptional recruitment cycle, and notable fund-raising, including the largest private foundation donation in the College’s history, as well as the development of several new athletic programs and joining the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics.
Last year, Jensen received the Pour Le Merite Award at the College’s Founder’s Day. The award, one of the College’s highest honors, recognizes individuals who exhibit substantial engagement in volunteer activities that have contributed to the betterment of the community.
Jensen will remain in the lead role at the College until his successor is found. When he steps down, he will be granted the title of President Emeritus by the Board of Trustees. Jensen plans to remain active in helping the college in that role.
Jensen says that having an opportunity to speak with the College’s students on a daily basis has been one of the great joys of his time at CSJ.
“Seeing students grow, learn and achieve their career goals is a validation of everything we work toward at CSJ. It’s an honor to be part of the opportunity we provide to our students, and I will miss them all when I step down,” Jensen said.
