Welcome Dr. Philip Rogers
On Monday I, along with the East Carolina University Board of Trustees, the campus community, and all of Pirate Nation will officially welcome Dr. Philip Rogers to his first day on the job as chancellor of ECU.
Before we do that, I would like to tip my hat to Dr. Ron Mitchelson. He has held the title of Interim Chancellor, but he has been much more. He stepped into a role that he had not sought at a time when the university needed him most. His stabilizing influence, his knowledge of and love for the university, and his unwavering dedication to its students, faculty and staff were exactly what we needed to guide ECU through a difficult and potentially perilous time. Having the right person in the chancellor’s office enabled the search committee to do our job the right way — to engage in a thorough process that would bring the perfect leader to ECU.
He was the right Pirate for this moment, and for that I am forever thankful. Now, as we enter a new era with Dr. Rogers at the helm, I am confident that we once again have the right Pirate for the job.
The landscape of higher education was already changing, but after the pandemic it will never be the same. However, ECU is uniquely positioned to succeed! Dr. Rogers brings to the table a national and global network and a comprehensive understanding of the industry, its needs and its challenges. His experience and leadership will guide ECU forward in its mission of providing a world class educational experience at an affordable cost.
Dr. Rogers is committed to eastern North Carolina and understands the university’s critical role in its economic vitality. Having left the region to pursue his career, he could have gone anywhere, but he wanted to come back here and serve the region he calls home. He understands the potential of ECU and eastern North Carolina, and he will provide the needed leadership for us to realize that potential!
Please join me in welcoming Dr. Philip Rogers, Dr. Rebekah P. Rogers, and their sons, Grayson and Dean, home to Greenville and the heart of Pirate Nation.
— Vern Davenport
ECU Board of Trustees chair