EAST LANSING , Mich. - President Peter McPherson announced today that he will step down Jan. 1 after 11 years at Michigan State University's helm.

Having served in Iraq as the financial coordinator for the Office of Reconstruction and Humanitarian Assistance last year, McPherson said he had time to reflect on both his future and that of the university.

"Every decade or so, it's important to have new ideas. Big organizations need to have change," McPherson said.

"It's been 11 wonderful years. I've deeply enjoyed this role."

Board of Trustees Chairperson David Porteous said, "On behalf of the Board of Trustees, collectively and individually, I express our deepest gratitude to Peter McPherson for his outstanding leadership." Porteous Statement

McPherson announced his plans during commencement ceremonies for undergraduates at the Jack Breslin Student Events Center.

"I am proud of the many accomplishments of faculty, students and staff over the past 10-plus years," he said. "From the Guiding Principles to the Biomedical and Physical Sciences Building to the 20-20 Vision. From becoming the nations' leader in study abroad to dramatic growth in external research funding. From the Honors College renaissance to the Beaumont Tower renovation.
Dynamic Decade

"I was honored to be president for a national debate championship and a national basketball championship. We now have a law school on our campus. It's been exciting and invigorating."

His departure will mark the end of the longest-serving president-provost team in the Big Ten, said Provost Lou Anna K. Simon.

"I have had the privilege to work closely with Peter, who is a valued colleague and good friend," Simon said. "He works tirelessly to raise MSU's profile and reputation as a globally connected institution, advancing our study abroad programs and other international initiatives, even while continuing our commitment to the communities and people we serve nearer to home."

McPherson said he is looking at several options for the future, including development in impoverished nations, broader public service and finance.

His recent professional accomplishments include his service in Iraq from May to September 2003. He was instrumental in establishing the central bank in Iraq and worked with international banks as they began to invest in and establish themselves in that country.
McPherson Bio

"I want opportunities to do something beyond this presidency," McPherson said, "and I want to be readily available for them."