Dr. Meg McKeon | Former Vice President for Student Affairs

On October 24, 2013 the BVU community was notified by President Moore that I had left the University. The announcement came as a surprise to the BVU community, especially to the student body. Students were left to wonder why and have since shared with me dissatisfaction at not receiving a reason. It is for this reason that I have agreed to respond to the students and am appreciative of the invitation by The Tack to reach out to you.

Let me be clear, however, that this letter will still leave some unsatisfied as I am not going to disclose any details about what led to my sudden departure. It is a private matter, and to share that would serve no purpose. The responses that you have received from the administration regarding this matter are in accordance with professional standards and are in the best interest of all parties. My departure has been handled respectfully and professionally.

What I can tell you is that my leaving was not due to any dissatisfaction with the students of BVU. From the day I interviewed and up to my last day on campus as the Vice President for Student Affairs/Dean of Students, BVU students were welcoming, friendly, and willing to work with me. I have always considered it to be a privilege and honor to serve and support students in their personal and professional growth. The best part of my day was always interacting with students whether it be a short conversation in the hallway, the food court, or in meetings. When students would stop by my office “just to visit” or to get some chocolate, it always brought me joy and happiness. The jokes, the laughter, and, yes, the sometimes difficult conversations we shared were all gifts. I enjoyed watching you compete in athletics, perform on stage, conduct interviews, and present your research. As students, please do not ever forget that you are also teachers – from you I have learned a lot.

You inspire me and others to grow as individuals through service and to care about issues we may otherwise not be aware of. You challenged me to learn more in order to share that knowledge with you. You taught me not to take myself so seriously (how could I when getting a pie in the face or dressed as Buford?). You have given me hope in our future by showing your compassion to others and desire to make the world a better place.

As a student at BVU you are receiving the opportunity to have an educational experience many others can only wish for you. The resources for travel, research, service and personal growth all guided by a talented faculty focused on teaching are not available at most schools. The staff who are there to guide and serve you also do so with a desire to see you succeed.

So while change is hard, and sometimes not welcome or easy to understand it is important that you know that your journey no matter how well mapped out may bring unexpected turns. My advice: remain open to the possibilities change can bring for the opportunity may be greater than the one you thought you were working toward.

For the time being I am still in Storm Lake and look forward to seeing you at upcoming events. I wish you well and thank you for letting me be a part of BVU and your experience.