Jackson Free Press

Dr. Robert Pearigen's ability to take on a $160 million capital campaign while remaining a passionate professor caught the eye of the presidential search committee at Millsaps College.

With more than 20 years experience in leadership in higher education, he will begin his term as president at Millsaps College on July. 1.

Last week The Board of Trustees at Millsaps College announced Pearigen as the 11th president of the college. He will succeed Dr. Frances Lucas who will end her term this summer after serving 10 years as president.

"He is a true scholar, embodied with the tradition of a small residential liberal arts curriculum and a perfect fit for Millsaps College," Maurice Hall, chairman of the Millsaps College Board of Trustees, told the Jackson Free Press.

Pearigen is currently the vice president for university relations and a political science professor for University of the South in Sewanee, Tenn. He obtained his master's and doctorate degrees in political science from Duke University in 1976.

In 1987 Pearigen began his career as dean of students at the University of the South. As dean, he oversaw the student affairs division, led projects for new campus buildings and spearheaded campus restoration efforts.

As vice president for university relations, Pearigen led the university's $180 million campaign--raising $206 million over three years. He also served on the university's strategic planning committee and campus master plan committee.

In 2006, to honor Pearigen, the university created the Pearigen Award for Commitment to Community.

Pearigen currently lives in Tennessee with his wife, Phoebe Stone Pearigen, and two children, Carolyn, 17, and Wesley, 14.

Millsaps will host a reception for Pearigen Friday, Feb. 19, from 3 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. on campus at the John Hall dormitory. Students and faculty members are invited to meet and welcome the new president.