Farish Was Rowan's 'Guiding Light'

Typically, a university commencement is the final step for students on their way to a diploma.

This year, it was Rowan University President Donald Farish’s final step, too.

After 13 years as Rowan’s head, directing major change and expansion as part of a 10-year plan, Farish is moving on to Roger Williams University in Rhode Island beginning in July.

He was quick to deflect praise from himself during his speech on the steps of Bunce Hall Friday morning, recognizing everyone from the grounds crew to volunteers as critical parts of commencement, and lauded the university’s professors.

“I may wield the baton, but they are the ones who make the music,” he said.

Farish called Rowan’s achievements over the past decade a collective success, as well.

“While the president may be the face of an institution, he or she does not work alone,” he said.

Keith Campbell, who was part of the Board of Trustees who hired Farish in 1998, said Farish’s accomplishments will leave a mark on Glassboro for generations.

“Rowan has increased its reputation to be considered a top-tier university,” Campbell said. “His leadership has been the guiding light.”

Campbell called for a standing ovation for the outgoing president at one point, but the graduates cheered every time Farish took to the microphone, showering him with applause throughout the ceremony.

For retired Navy Lt. Cmdr. John Pastin, who came to Rowan’s music department after conducting a host of Navy bands at the same time the university changed presidents, Farish’s tenure was marked by major improvements.

“The evidence is all around us: the growth of the school, the quality of our programs–we couldn’t have done that without the support he gave us,” Pastin said.

Campbell said leading the university through a period of change and growth was a challenge.

“Don Farish has not done the job alone, but his leadership has taken Rowan University from nationally recognized to nationally prominent,” he said.

Pastin said Farish’s departure is a big loss for the university community.

“He’s been so open and understanding of every facet of the university,” Pastin said. “It’s going to be hard to find someone like him.”