UI dean of students announces retirement

Bruce Pitman, longtime dean of students, announced he will be leaving the University of Idaho – but he is not in any hurry.

“I still have great passion for the work that we do and a love for the University of Idaho,” Pitman said. “I feel very fortunate and blessed to have had such a nice, long career at the university.”

Pitman has been with the university since 1973, acting as dean of students since 1981. In 2005 he added the title of vice provost of student affairs to his resume.

Pitman said he has asked Provost Katherine Aiken to begin the search process but said he will stay until his successor has been chosen. He thought it was important there not be an interim appointed so the staff would not have to deal with changes before a permanent replacement was found.

“I want to make sure there is a good, successful transition,” Pitman said.

Pitman said he plans on staying in the community, as he and his wife are deeply involved in a number of community projects, which they will continue to devote their time and energy to – while having a little more freedom and recreation time as well.

“I hope that one of my more significant contributions has simply been to bring a level of caring, compassion and commitment to students’ success,” Pitman said.