By Brandon Moseley
Alabama Political Reporter
Monday, March 20, 2017, the Auburn University Board of Trustees unanimously selected Iowa State University President Steven Leath after a six-month national search. The University announced that Leath starts on July 15, and replaces Jay Gogue, who announced his retirement in September.
Trustee Raymond Harbert said, “This is a great day for Auburn. Dr. Leath is a strategic leader who will work alongside the campus community and alumni to elevate Auburn to the next level in instruction, research and outreach.”
Since 2012, Leath has led Iowa State. While president, Iowa State achieved its highest student graduation rate, lowered student debt, grew research expenditures, set fundraising records and secured the university’s largest private gift for an academic facility.
Leath began his career as a plant pathologist at the University of Illinois, Urbana. He spent much of his career in North Carolina, serving as vice president for research at the University of North Carolina System prior to his selection at Iowa State. He received degrees in plant science and plant pathology from Pennsylvania State University, the University of Delaware and the University of Illinois.
Larry Teeter, Professor of Forest Economics and Immediate past Chair of the University Senate, said, “We found an accomplished leader through an inclusive search process with all campus constituencies represented. Teeter served on the presidential search committee along with representatives of Auburn students, faculty, staff and alumni.
Gogue has held Auburn’s top position since July 2007.
BOT President Pro Tem Charles McCrary said, “The contribution Jay and Susie Gogue made to Auburn is immeasurable. We’re fortunate they will remain part of the Auburn community.”
The Auburn University Board of Trustees has approved the selection of Steven Leath as the University’s 19th President.
