Dr. Bethany Meighen has indeed been welcomed as the 13th president of Concord University, formally commencing her term. The university’s Board of Governors unanimously chose Dr. Meighen in April, with her effective tenure beginning on July 1st. She succeeds the long-standing university president, Dr. Kendra Boggess, who served a successful 11-year term and dedicated 40 years to the institution in various roles.
The decision to appoint Dr. Meighen was made after intensive deliberation by Concord’s Board of Governors. Their chairman, Dave Barnette, provided insights into their decision, highlighting Dr. Meighen’s impressive academic administrative record, and her experience in shaping policies related to student admission and support services. These skills make her ideally positioned to sustain and enhance Dr. Boggess’ legacy and strategically sound foundation.
The Board of Governors conveyed their gratitude for the committed work of the Presidential Search Committee, which spent many months leading the presidential search process. The successful culmination of their efforts in Dr. Meighen’s appointment ushers an exciting future for the university.
Dr. Meighen returns to her roots in West Virginia following a stint as Vice President for Academic and Student Affairs at the University of North Carolina. It appears her homecoming has been very warmly received. Relishing her return, Dr. Meighen expressed she feels blessed to be back in West Virginia, experiencing far more than she had hoped for.
She spoke with evident delight about the friendly reception from the local communities of Athens and Princeton. They have offered her a significantly positive embrace, and she confessed her homecoming could not have been more uplifting.
Emphasizing her long-held ambition to assume the role of a university president, Dr. Meighen stated her goal to give back to higher education. Additionally, the decision to apply for this particular post was further influenced by the chance to be closer to her extended family.
Bethany mentioned that her family resides across the Cross Lanes and Teays Valley areas. Her husband’s family, on the other hand, is spread across Fairmont and Clarksburg, making her new role even more opportune.
Dr. Meighen’s academic journey began at the University of Charleston, where she received her undergraduate and graduate credentials. Upon moving to North Carolina, she completed her Doctor of Education from the University of North Carolina, Wilmington.
Her professional life sprouted at the University of Charleston, where she held the roles of the Director of Alumni and Parent Relations, the Director of Marketing and Alumni Relations, and the Dean of Student Life. These roles reinforced her conviction in the power of robust relationships, particularly with her immediate colleagues.
Dr. Meighen expressed strong confidence that her prior achievements in enhancing admissions and enrollment at her previous institution would be beneficial in forecasting growth for Concord. She aims to apply her experience to attract more students to benefit from the unique Concord experience.
Dr. Meighen was one among 60 contenders for the presidency. She initiated the application process in December, progressing to the finalist stage in March. The process, while strenuous, was also comprehensive and meticulous.
Since her appointment in April, Dr. Meighen shared that she maintained continuous communication with Dr. Boggess, particularly valuable during the transitional phase. Dr. Boggess played a crucial role in introducing her to new people and provided extensive insights about the institution and its workings.
From her predecessor, Dr. Meighen gained valuable insights into the art of listening to comprehend, not merely to reply. Carrying this ethos forward, she seeks to encourage open dialogues about collaborative community efforts, student support, and maintaining Concord’s legacy. Above all, she is eagerly anticipating the first day of classes, a testament to the passion that drives Concord’s purpose.