Newly elected U.S. presidents historically enjoy a "honeymoon" period, when the public allows them time to settle into the job. It's an opportunity to take measure of a new top dog.
A bit closer to home, Edward F. Leonard is the new president of Bethany College, Lindsborg. He is at the end of his honeymoon on campus, and judging from his first eight months in office, he has set the foundations for a long and happy relationship with the college and the community. The place is abuzz with excitement and invigorated with new projects and successes.
This is the final day of a weeklong celebration marking Leonard's official inauguration as the college's 13th president. He actually began his duties August 1, 2007. Here are a few highlights from Mike Strand's Journal story about Leonard's first months at the helm:
n A collaboration with the Smoky Valley School District brings a $1.2 million renovation of Anderson Stadium and Field, including widening the field to accommodate soccer, installing artificial turf, and renovations to the rest rooms and visitors' bleachers.
n A $500,000 donation from a Minnesota couple, who first met at the Messiah Festival more than 50 years ago, increases the musical's permanent endowment to more than $1 million.
n A $400,000 donation was accepted for music education scholarships.
n The college announced a $1 million challenge donation, providing the university raises another $1 million by the end of June. The money is going to construction of a new Swedish chapel and welcome center on campus.
n The college's board of directors decided to issue $6 million in bonds to add new science labs, weight and locker rooms, and new apartment-style student housing, plus various maintenance projects.
n A "campus green" project involves landscape renovations, a new campus entrance and an amphitheater made of huge stone blocks.
Leonard also has done plenty of spadework to prepare for his new job. He traveled the country meeting with alumni and college board directors. For three weeks he stayed in campus dorms, learning about students, their living quarters, and learning to play "Hall Ball," which consists of knocking over Gatorade bottles with a tennis ball.
Folks tell us that Leonard has connected well with the college and the community during this honeymoon. That's great news. It sets the stage for continued success and progress.
-- Tom Bell
Editor & Publisher
©Salina Journal