University of Virginia Library

Distinguished Tenure

was "very sad to hear about
the resignation. I think that the
future historian of the
University will conclude that
Pres. Shannon's tenure was
without question the most
distinguished in the history of
the University."

College Dean Irby B.
Cauthen, Jr. offered another
statement: "Mr. Shannon has
served the University both
impressively and unselfishly.
He has successfully enlisted the
help of faculty, staff, and
students to move the
University to the front ranks of
American universities in his
remarkable term of office."

"We can understand his
decision even though we regret
it, but we are delighted to learn
that he will remain here as a
member of the faculty," he
continued. His contributions to
the University have been great,
selfless, and enduring. They
will continue to be."

Student leaders echoed faculty
remarks. Student Council
Prees. Jim Rinaca, contacted in
Richmond where he is
attending the Student-Legislator
Forum, said that
"Mr. Shannon shall be
remembered for his guidance at
the University during its first
years of coeducation, for his
efforts to increase the
recruitment of minority
students, and for his concern
about greater student input on
administrative decisions.

"During his term as
President," he said, "the
University has risen
academically to national
prominence in several
departments. Although we
have not always agreed with all
his decisions, Mr. Shannon
should certainly be commended
for his efforts to do what he
thought was best for the
Commonwealth and the
University."

College President and Honor
Committee Chairman Gordon
Peerman cited Mr. Shannon
as being "especially helpful in
setting up New Faculty Honor
System orientations," and, he
added, "I respect him greatly."