BLUEFIELD, VA (LOOTPRESS) – In recognition of his more than 16 successful years of service as President, and his commitment to the students, faculty, and staff of Bluefield and its surrounding communities, the Bluefield University Board of Trustees is pleased to announce the role of Chancellor has been bestowed to Dr. David W. Olive.
“By honoring Dr. Olive with this title, he will forever be a recognized ambassador for Bluefield University,” said Jack Reasor, Chair of the Board of Trustees. “We are pleased to recognize him for his wonderful service to the Bluefield community as our second longest-tenured President. He and his wife, Kathryn, have successfully moved the University forward through many changes that have occurred since 2007.”
The designation of Chancellor at Bluefield University is a unique ceremonial title, with Olive being the first appointed to the role at the institution. He will commence his duties, which primarily include advocacy, fundraising, and outreach, on January 1, 2024, with continued work on campus through his announced retirement date of June 30, 2024. Following that date, Olive has shared his willingness to continue providing support for the mission and work of the institution.
“As I shared in my announcement at the beginning of the academic year, Kathryn and I will always be two of Bluefield University’s greatest cheerleaders,” said Olive. “We look forward to continuing our support of this venerable institution in the years ahead.”
Also effective on January 1, 2024, Dr. Michael Salmeier, Provost of the University, will assume the title and responsibilities of Interim President and Provost of Bluefield University. Over the past year, Dr. Salmeier has provided leadership in the area of academics on campus and will now combine that with the Office of the President.
Bluefield University continues its search for its tenth president. In its fall meeting, the Board of Trustees appointed a search committee and retained the services of CarterBaldwin, a national search firm, to assist the search committee in its duties. The Board intends to make an announcement regarding Bluefield’s next appointed president at or near the Spring 2024 meeting of the Board of Trustees. Future search updates can be found on the University website at www.bluefield.edu/presidential-search.
For questions or additional information, please contact Bethany Justis in the Office of the President at Bluefield University at 276.326.4201 or bjustis@bluefield.edu.