Mere days after being named as the 19th president of Indiana University by the IU Board of Trustees, Pamela Whitten wasted no time in getting to know its students, faculty, staff, and the communities it serves better. Although her tenure does not begin until July 1, 2021 Whitten made it a point to visit IU Northwest and the other regional campuses earlier this week.

Welcomed to campus by Chancellor Ken Iwama, Whitten began her day with several student roundtable sessions featuring student athletes and student leaders.

As she told the Post-Tribune, "The students are fantastic. They love their university and are very proud and appreciative of Indiana University Northwest. They all gave examples and they feel they’re getting an outstanding education. They’re excited.”

According to Chancellor Iwama, this excitement extends to the campus's appreciation for her visit. "The fact she’s here today, months before she takes over is a good sign," said Iwama. "It sends a strong message about the value the new president has toward IU Northwest."

After her time with the students, Whitten met with faculty, staff and community members, a total of more than 75 people throughout the day. She also toured campus facilities, including the McMahon Resource Center for Athletics in the Savannah Center, and the $45 million Arts & Sciences Building, two of the newest spaces at IU Northwest. 

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A visionary scholar and accomplished educator and researcher, Whitten has held a variety of leadership roles, beginning at Michigan State University where she served as a dean for five years, and now as president of Kennesaw State University. Learn more about her and explore a photo gallery of her visit to IU Northwest.