After a four-month search, a new Bradley University president has finally been selected.
Federal judge James E. Shadid was announced as the university’s 13th president on March 14 via a press release sent by the Office of Marketing and Communications. The Scout believes this hire will bring a breath of fresh air to campus.
Shadid’s work as a judge and attorney gives him an analytical, fact-based perspective that can be applied to crucial university decisions. His previous experience also requires understanding and compassion for people of all backgrounds and circumstances, something greatly appreciated in a university president.
As a Peoria native and Bradley alumni, Shadid has experienced many eras of the university. Being able to love Bradley not just as a faculty member, but also as a student is an incredibly unique perspective that will hopefully allow him to see certain situations from a student’s point of view. With this knowledge, the campus community hopes he will have Bradley’s best interests in mind.
In his interview with The Scout, Shadid said he believes his transition to president will be natural. He’s already been attending on-campus events such as the Big Idea Competition, showing that he is willing and able to make his presence known and be active across campus.
If that wasn’t evidence enough, he also spoke on a Legal Pathways Panel on Wednesday for the pre-law program. Volunteering his time and knowledge for the benefit of students is a promising sign that he is dedicated to student development and academic life.
Shadid will officially assume his duties on Tuesday, and if his engagement this week is any indication, the future of Bradley looks bright.