Card Stepping Down from Franklin Pierce University Presidency

RINDGE, NH — Andrew Card announced on June 17, 2016, that he will step down as president of Franklin Pierce University on Aug. 1, 2016, according to a press statement.

Card said that he had originally agreed to a two-year commitment with the board that ends in January and he believed that he because surpassed the goals he laid out for himself.

"I wanted the school to start with my successor in place prior to the new academic year beginning so they can take the school to the next level," he said. “Leading this institution has been both a good challenge and a great joy. I leave knowing we have met those challenges and I know the school is on a firm foundation for growth."

Michael C. J. Fallon, chairman of Franklin Pierce’s board of trustees, said Card accomplished everything the board asked of him, "and more," according to the statement.

“We are sorry to see Andy and his wife, Kathleene, leave," he said. "Both have made lasting contributions to this institution while inspiring students, staff, faculty and alumni. Thanks to Andy, Franklin Pierce is measurably better positioned for its future than when he arrived. We will always appreciate the experience and enthusiasm he brought to Franklin Pierce and the extraordinary achievements while he was here."

Achievements Card noted included increasing and retaining undergraduate recruitment at the school, revenue projections exceed even the most optimistic forecasts, and the university had an operating financial surplus for a second year. The university’s unrestricted endowment has grown significantly and visibility nationwide has been significantly increased, he added.

Card, a native of Holbrook, Mass., came to Franklin Pierce after having served as chief of staff to President George W. Bush and acting dean of the George H.W. Bush School of Public Service and Government at Texas A&M University. He was secretary of transportation in President George H. W. Bush’s administration. He had served on the Franklin Pierce board of trustees from 1996 to 2000.

“I fell in love with this school and its mission when I served on the board,” Card said. “That love has only deepened during my service in the presidency. I have truly enjoyed getting to know the people who make this university a success and especially the outstanding students. I will miss them most of all.”