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September 19, 2013

To the William Paterson University Community

It is with regret that I inform the University community that Dr. John Martone, vice president for student development, has announced his intention to retire from William Paterson University at the end of 2013.

John came to William Paterson in 2002, as the associate vice president and dean of students and was promoted to vice president for student development in 2005.  In addition to his duties in student development, John oversaw the enrollment management functions of the University for six years.

It is challenging to adequately convey John's many accomplishments and contributions to the William Paterson community, particularly to our students. From my perspective I would like to share some of particular note:

* Developed a comprehensive assessment plan for the division of Student Development, one that received a commendation by the visiting team from Middle States in 2011.
 
* Implemented Alcohol.edu, a mandatory program for all incoming students that increases awareness of alcohol abuse and is recognized as a hallmark program for student education.
 
* Changed the traditional counseling services model at William Paterson University to a health and wellness model, with an emphasis on making good personal health choices.
 
* Championed the creation of the Fitness Center in the Pavilion in Overlook Hall to bring workout facilities closer to student housing.
 
* Established an Office of Veterans Affairs to assist our returning soldiers, and an Office of Commuter Services to advocate for the needs of our commuting students.
 
* Provided great leadership to our athletic programs, always encouraging good sportsmanship, excellent coaching, and the right balance for all student athletes.
 
* Played a crucial role in designing and programming for the University Commons, as well as for High Mountain East and West residence halls.
 
* Assumed a leadership role on numerous institutional committees as a member of the President’s Cabinet, most recently as a member of the Strategic Plan Committee.

On behalf of the University, I want to thank John for eleven years of exemplary service to this University.  He has done an excellent job assembling a team of student development professionals who continue to provide meaningful co-curricular experiences for our students, and who are grooming our students to become future leaders.

A search for a new vice president for student development will begin immediately and a search committee will soon be formed. We will have an opportunity to thank John later in the term for his hard work, his dedication, his leadership and for his complete commitment to the students of William Paterson University.  Please join me in wishing John well upon his decision to retire and enjoy time in Washington and Florida.

Sincerely,

Kathleen Waldron
President

William Paterson University
300 Pompton Road, Wayne, New Jersey 07470     973-720-2222     president@wpunj.edu