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Following the unexpected resignation of President David Brandt, the board asked Larry Nikkel to become interim president as of Aug. 1, 1998. Nikkel had taken many active roles in campus governance and fundraising since his days as a Tabor student. He knew the constituents of Tabor, and they knew him. As Tabor board chair he had worked closely on the strategic plan and had previously served in a volunteer capacity for several administrations. Following a national search, the board announced Feb. 19, 1999, the unanimous selection and appointment of Larry Nikkel to be the 12th president of Tabor College. He would focus on three main objectives: strengthening relationships with alumni and friends of Tabor; a commitment to excellence by Tabor administration, faculty, and staff; and financial viability through growth of the student body and broadening the donor base. He worked as a tireless representative of Tabor to build trusting relationships with Mennonite Brethren churches and alumni.
The above anecdote is included in ?Tabor College: A Century of Transformation 1908-2008,? the history of the college commissioned for this year?s centennial celebration. The book can be purchased for $48.39 (tax included) plus $5 for shipping. Call 620-947-3121 ext. 1212 for information or orders.
