Former President Eckley Remembered
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April 16, 2012
BLOOMINGTON, Ill.— Following are comments shared by President Richard F. Wilson to
members of the Illinois Wesleyan community on the death early Sunday morning, April
15, of former President Robert S. Eckley.
“It is with great sadness that I report the death of IWU's 15th president, Robert
S. Eckley, who died at his Bloomington home early Sunday morning. Bob's contributions
to Illinois Wesleyan are both broad and deep, but I know his proudest achievements
revolved around strengthening the faculty and making profound improvements in the
University's financial position.
"His 18-year tenure as president, from 1968 to 1986, was matched only by his continuing
loyalty and support to the University. We all shall miss him as a colleague; I shall
miss him as a mentor and friend. Please join me in expressing sincere condolences
to Nell Eckley and all their family members.”
Plans for his memorial service will be announced on the Illinois Wesleyan website
later today.
Contact: Matt Kurz (309) 556-3203