Baker University on Thursday announced the appointment of Hoot Gibson as interim president, effective immediately.
Gibson, who graduated from Baker in 1973 with a bachelor of arts in business, has “demonstrated a profound commitment to the university” through 20 years of service as a member of the university’s board of trustees, according to the release.
“A proud alumnus, Gibson has consistently supported the university through numerous high-impact initiatives, including leading efforts to secure Baker’s place in wills and trusts as well as his personal contributions to the Baker University Athletic Hall of Fame,” according to the release. “Notably, Gibson helped secure the funds that led to the renovation of Mulvane Hall to create the Ivan L. Boyd Center for Collaborative Science Education, home of Baker’s biology program and other essential academic programs.”
Lynne Murray, Baker’s president for the last decade, is stepping down from her position in December. She’s been announced as the next president of McMurry University in Abilene, Texas.
Gibson said in the release that he’s honored to step into the role.
“Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of working closely with our incredible faculty, staff, students, and trustees to advance initiatives that strengthen our mission,” he said in the release. “As we navigate this transition period, I remain committed to fostering collaboration, innovation, and academic excellence. Together we will continue to build on the strong foundation that makes Baker University so special.”
Baker Board of Trustees Chair Brenda Stasiulis said in Thursday’s news release that the board is thrilled to name Gibson as interim president.
“As a longstanding member of our Board of Trustees and a proven leader of several transformative university initiatives, Hoot has consistently demonstrated a deep commitment to Baker’s mission and values,” Stasiulis said in the release. “We welcome Hoot to this new role and look forward to ensuring a seamless transition for our university.”
Gibson will hold this position while the university searches for its 30th president, expected in 2025, according to the release. Trustee John Thomson, Class of 1995 alum and founder and CEO of PayIt, a digital government and payment platform, is leading the search committee, according to a previous release from the university.
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