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Christine Hatfield
Mearns’ new contract runs until June of 2027. Under his leadership, the board says Ball State has implemented a long term strategic plan and created a collaboration with Muncie Community Schools. Board member Rick Hall says what Mearns has done during his time in the position has been outstanding. According to Hall, the university has never been stronger.

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Rick Hall
What it really demonstrates is his ability to be successful for years to come in a climate that we don't really know what is ahead.

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Christine Hatfield
This presidential contract renewal comes after Mearns’ predecessor, former university President Paul Ferguson, left about a year and a half into a multi-year contract. Both he and the university signed agreements that left the community in the dark as to why. According to Mearns, the university is now on an upward trajectory. But he says to call the path ahead, clear skies would be optimistic.

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Christine Hatfield
He says the goal is for the university to be a resource for adult learners to take advantage of educational opportunities.

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Geoffrey Mearns
We know for higher education, there are challenges ahead. I think we're well prepared with our plan and with the faculty and staff and leadership team that we have. I think we're prepared to meet those challenges.

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Christine Hatfield
There's a few changes with Mearns’ new contract. His salary, benefits and bonuses will remain the same in Muncie. Christine Hatfield, IPR News.