A former chief justice of the Georgia Supreme Court will take over as interim president at Emory University to allow the current president to become the school's chancellor.
Leah Ward Sears, who served on the high court for 17 years, has been a member of Emory's Board of Trustees since 2010. She will assume her new role at the beginning of September, succeeding President Gregory L. Fenves.
“Dr. Fenves has been a highly effective and dedicated president," board Chairman Bob Goddard said Wednesday. "This new role will enable him to build on the essential growth he helped facilitate while focusing on Emory’s future.”
Under Fenves' leadership, Emory initiated a fundraising campaign that has become the most successful in the university's history. Fundraising promises to play a major part in his role as chancellor.
“Serving as Emory’s president has been a great honor,” Fenves said. “Prior to my arrival in Atlanta, I knew that Emory was a special place, but over the past five years I’ve developed a far deeper appreciation for the brilliance, passion, and dedication of our community. I’m proud of what we have accomplished together."
As Sears prepares for her new role, Emory's trustees will launch a nationwide search for a permanent president.
“Having the opportunity to serve Emory as interim president is a full circle moment for me,” Sears said. “In 1977, I was fortunate to receive a scholarship to the Emory School of Law, and it changed my life. I think my life’s work has been a payback for that gift, and I welcome the chance to serve Emory as it continues to change lives the way it did for me and my family.”
