TMCnet News
University of the Cumberlands Board of Trustees Names Larry Cockrum CEO and President-Elect(Targeted News Service Via Acquire Media NewsEdge) WILLIAMSBURG, Ky., Oct. 21 -- University of the Cumberlands issued the following news release: On October 16th during the University of the Cumberlands (UC) semi-annual Board of Trustees' meeting, Dr. Larry Cockrum was unanimously elected Chief Executive Officer and President-Elect of the University with responsibilities to begin immediately for all operational aspects of the institution. Dr. Cockrum received a seven year contract from the Board and will assume the role of President on October 16, 2015. Dr. Larry L. Cockrum was born in Wichita, Kansas on January 8, 1951. During his academic career, Dr. Cockrum achieved several degrees and honors, including: a Bachelor's degree in Science Education from College of the Ozarks in Point Lookout, Missouri; a Master's degree in Science Education from Missouri State University; a Doctorate degree in Higher Education Administration from Vanderbilt University; and a Post-Graduate certification from Harvard University. Dr. Cockrum has served as Vice President for Academic Affairs at University of the Cumberlands since 2007. Previous to his experiences at UC, Dr. Cockrum served as Dean of Administration, Dean of Students, and Executive Director of the Keeter Center for Character Education at College of the Ozarks. Dr. Cockrum and his wife of forty-two years, Dixie, have four children: Jason, Nicholas, Lindsey, Cassie and one grandchild, Cora. Dr. Cockrum stated, "I would first like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the Board, administration, faculty, staff, alumni and donors at University of the Cumberlands. In a time when students are financially stretched and the nation faces many challenges local and abroad, University of the Cumberlands remains steadfast to its commitment in developing well-rounded students, prepared to lead lives of responsible service and leadership. "Throughout my educational career, I was influenced by caring and competent leaders and teachers who focused on developing students as life-long learners. In reflecting on these personal mentors, there were several traits that set them apart including: intelligence, fairness, consistency, a sensitive understanding of students, a strong sense of integrity, the ability to inspire students to maximum effort and the ability to communicate ideas and information to others. "These leadership qualities have shaped my own leadership philosophy. I will always have a deep feeling of indebtedness to UC for this opportunity to serve in leadership. As in the past, the profound feeling for the University is a positive force in my new position, and I am humbled by the opportunity to serve as CEO and President-Elect at UC. "Goal setting is a strategic task that I have always believed in, and I am committed to the following three goals for leading this institution into continued growth and vitality. "First, I would like to create a self-perpetuating esprit de corps at University of the Cumberlands. This spirit of devotion and enthusiasm among the faculty and students will assist in establishing a sense of community and belonging. I would like to instill a value in students for supporting and respecting one another while building fellowship rooted in tradition and pride for the University. The spirit of this campus is its servant heart, moral values, and willingness to reach out to others. Throughout my lifetime, I have traveled across the United States and abroad, and the servant-minded characteristics of UC's faculty and students are unequaled in any other part of the world. "Second, I want to insist on the need for high expectations for myself, the students, the faculty, and the community. Research shows that success breeds greater success, and experience teaches us that we are creatures of expectancy; therefore, extremely high expectations will be a focus of the University to ensure high academic fidelity, quality of educational experiences, and spiritual/cultural growth. "Third, I will focus on creating and sustaining opportunities for the UC community to engage in servant leadership. This work will ensure that all stakeholders are provided with opportunities to engage with the University's Mission Statement in understanding leadership responsibilities to the greater community. "To conclude, I would like to share a quote from John Wooden, a noted leader and spiritual coach: 'Remember this your lifetime through Tomorrow there'll be more to do And Failure waits with all who stay With some success made yesterday Tomorrow, you must try once more And even harder than before.'" TNS 18DejucosGrace-141022-30FurigayJane-4908161 30FurigayJane (c) 2014 Targeted News Service |