MORGANTOWN, W.Va. — The West Virginia University Board of Governors has recommended a new 5-year contract for current President E. Gordon Gee.
“He’s a great man and a great president,” said BOG Chair Tom Flaherty Thursday. “We want to keep him here as long as we can.”
Board members voted unanimously on the proposal that must be approved by the Higher Education Policy Commission.
Gee was given a 2-year contract in March 2014. He was making $775,000 annually.
“From the moment he stepped on the campus at WVU for the second time, he’s energized this university. He’s made a positive impact on enrollment. He’s developed new collaborations and partnerships. And, he’s ensured WVU is a true partner as we plan for the future of West Virginia,” Flaherty added.
The bow tie wearing administrator came to WVU in December 2013 and served as an interim until being hired permanently in March 2014.
Gee was WVU’s president from 1981 to 1984 following 3 years as the dean of the WVU College of Law.
“His insight, his intellect and his energy are incomparable. He’s worked hard at everything he’s done. Fortunately he brings almost 40 years of experience as a university president. So, we’ve got a rock star in higher education,” summarized Flaherty.
Gee has served as president The Ohio State University, Vanderbilt University, Brown University and the University of Colorado.
The Higher Education Policy Commission meets June 24. If approved, Gee’s contract would begin July 1.
Details of the contract were not released pending the commission’s approval.