UF president announces retirement

FINDLAY — University of Findlay President Katherine Fell has announced her plan to retire at the end of the academic year. At the end of the 2025-26 school year, Fell will have been UF's president for 16 years. "President Fell has led with vision, faith and a deep commitment to the transformative power of higher education," said Chris Ostrander, president of the University's Board of Trustees. "We are profoundly grateful for her service and her impact on many thousands of students. She will leave Findlay poised for continued growth and a dynamic future." Under Fell's tenure, the university was recognized this year for the 20th consecutive time in U.S. News & World Report's annual survey of "America's Best Colleges." "Under President Fell's leadership, Findlay has added many new academic programs, especially at the master's and doctoral levels, while expanding the number of partnerships with local businesses and community organizations, and amplifying its role as a regional catalyst for economic and social vitality," Ostrander explained. She also has been a driving force behind "Together We Will," the largest fundraising campaign in UF history, a release from UF states. Gifts have nearly reached the $75 million goal the campaign set, and have allowed the construction of the Joseph and Judith Conda STEAM Education Center and the Dick Strahm Champions Field. A multimillion-dollar lead gift created the Watterson Center for Ethical Leadership, and $15.5 million has been given for student scholarships, the release states. "It has been an immense honor for me to serve as the University of Findlay's president and work alongside talented colleagues to serve our students," Fell said. "I am deeply grateful to our many alumni, friends, parents, and community members who believe in UF's mission to prepare students for meaningful lives and productive careers." President Fell came to Findlay in 2010 after serving at Centenary College, in Shreveport, Louisiana, for 24 years, first as an associate professor of English and later as the college's vice president of advancement. The Board of Trustees will launch a national search for the next president, according to the release.