July 1, 2009 did not appear to me to be a significant date at the beginning of the year. Now it is certainly one of the most important days in my life. It is not truly equivalent to November 24, 1978 (marriage to Lynn), or to the days on which Christopher and Samantha were born -- but it must be in the top ten. I am very honored and excited to assume the position of President of the University of Rhode Island. Lynn and I are both deeply appreciative of the warm welcome we received during our visit in June and increasingly eager to join the URI community.
Although I will be assisting in the transition at Montana State University for a few more days, the leadership team at URI has already begun to work with me on our URI priorities. During the next few weeks we will be reviewing the planning and budget development processes (as well as the budget for FY 2011) and assessing the key opportunities and challenges for the University. In addition, the calendar is filling rapidly with events and meetings to help us get to know all of you, plus talking with you about your vision for URI, your aspirations, and expectations.
I will be on campus July 16-23 and then off to Japan to speak at two scientific meetings, engagements that were scheduled several months ago; these will be the first meetings where I will be representing URI. Afterward, I will return to Montana to join Lynn and our new Australian shepherd ("Rhody") for the drive to Kingston.
In the meantime you can reach me by calling the President's Office or by emailing davedooley@uri.edu.
