Gunderson given the title of President emeritus
In a heartfelt message, President Greg Gunderson and his family expressed their well-wishes for Park University during these challenging times of the pandemic. The President, who announced his resignation on November 24, 2020, thanked the Park community for the joy they have brought to him and his family.
During his tenure, President Gunderson oversaw significant expansions in student support services, athletics, and the launch of new campuses. One of the noteworthy achievements was the creation of the Pirate Pantry, a food pantry for students in need.
In response, the Park community collectively thanked President Gunderson for his years of dedicated service and wished him well in his future endeavors. The community also appreciated his guidance in Park University's rapid COVID-19 response, including a historic faculty course redevelopment process and the implementation of various technologies to enhance online learning.
Under President Gunderson's leadership, Park University also increased its fundraising efforts. A significant project was the systematic review of minority veterans' World War I service records, known as the Valor Medals Review.
President Gunderson will assume the position of president emeritus in the interim, and the Board of Trustees has appointed Dr. Kathrine Swanson as the interim president. There is no information indicating that Shane Smeed, the former president who resigned before April 23, 2025, held any other role at Park University following his resignation.
In his message, President Gunderson wished everyone at the University a safe and successful passage through the pandemic. He also expressed gratitude for the Board's support in his resignation and emphasised the special bond between him and the Park community. The President and his family will always consider Park University as a special place in their hearts.
As Park University bids farewell to President Gunderson, it looks forward to a new chapter under the leadership of Dr. Kathrine Swanson. The University remains committed to its mission of providing accessible, high-quality education to a diverse student body.
In the spirit of continuity, Dr. Kathrine Swanson, the newly appointed interim president, will carry on the tradition of education-and-self-development started by President Greg Gunderson, ensuring Park University's dedication to general-news topics such as the historic faculty course redevelopment process and sports achievements will continue. Despite his departure, President Gunderson's influence can still be seen in ongoing projects like the Valor Medals Review, demonstrating an enduring commitment to the University's sports and fundraising efforts.
