Oglethorpe University president to leave for California job

“This was a difficult decision, but I know I’m leaving the university in capable hands,” said Ladany, in a written statement. “I particularly appreciate the support of the Board of Trustees and their work to launch our strategic plan. Being here has been incredibly productive and rewarding.”

Oglethorpe’s announcement cited Ladany’s desire to move closer to his family on the West Coast as one of the reasons he decided to leave.

Oglethorpe enrolled nearly 1,500 students last fall, the highest student count since the school’s 1835 founding.

Ladany arrived at the school during the first crush of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a counseling psychologist, he spoke often about the mental health toll the pandemic has had on students. He helped lead Oglethorpe’s response amid the disruption.

Board of trustees chair Cameron Bready expressed appreciation for his work during that period.

“He began his tenure during the COVID-19 pandemic and helped us navigate that significant challenge while building momentum in key areas that have positioned the university exceptionally well for the future,” Bready said. “The board appreciates President Ladany’s many accomplishments as president and wishes him much success in his future endeavors.”

Credit: Oglethorpe University

Credit: Oglethorpe University

McClymond started as Oglethorpe’s provost and vice president for academic affairs in 2021. She previously worked at Georgia State University as an associate dean of faculty affairs in the arts and sciences college. She was a faculty member at Georgia State for more than two decades.

She received her doctorate and master’s degrees in religious studies from the University of California, Santa Barbara. McClymond studied history and literature as an undergraduate at Harvard University.

Her academic expertise is in the history of religions, particularly Hinduism and Judaism.