Iowa Wesleyan extends president’s contract

On Monday, the Iowa Wesleyan University Board of Trustees agreed to a two-year contract extension for Christine Plunkett, IW's 30th president, and the first female president in its 180-year history.

Under the new contract terms, Plunkett will remain in the position through the end of May 2024.

The vote by trustees was unanimous during the Iowa Wesleyan Board of Trustees’ meeting on Friday.

"President Plunkett has continued to demonstrate a deep commitment to our mission, student success, and academic excellence," said board Chair Robert Miller. "She possesses the leadership skills, energy and vision that IW needs during these challenging times.

“We have been fortunate to have President Plunkett at the helm and look forward to leadership continuity for the next couple of years."

During her time at IW, Plunkett has positioned the university for a sustainable future, securing an innovative partnership with Southeastern Community College, expanding the university’s Student Success Center and facilitating the athletic program’s return to the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA), according to a news release from the school.

This fall, the university began developing an Honors Program to provide honors-level offerings across all academic areas, expanded travel abroad programs and increased opportunities for students to engage in the arts.

The university’s unprecedented enrollment growth this fall reflects the success of these new initiatives and the many accomplishments of the faculty and staff.

“I am honored to continue to serve Iowa Wesleyan’s remarkable community,” said Plunkett. “Small regional universities fill a unique and necessary niche in the higher education landscape, and IW is a vital piece of the fabric of Southeast Iowa.

“I am grateful for the opportunity to continue working with our dedicated employees and committed trustees on behalf of our students, the community of Mount Pleasant, and the broader region.”

Through the Registry of College and University Presidents, Plunkett joined the executive team at Iowa Wesleyan University in July 2015 as vice president for finance and treasurer. She has served as president since July 2019.