Governor Mitch Daniels named Purdue's 12th president

WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. (WLFI) - The warm welcome that announced Governor Mitch Daniels as the 12th president of Purdue University on Thursday was followed by an emotional acceptance.

The announcement was made around 10:00 Thursday morning in Loeb Playhouse on Purdue's campus.

The 13 members of the selection committee have been searching for months for a president to fill France Cordova's position, which she will vacate on July 15.

Governor Daniels said he will remove himself from politics until he takes office in January.

"No campaigning, no commenting about anybody's campaign in state, out of state, anywhere else," said Governor Daniels. "No fundraising, nothing. I won't be a delegate at the National Convention. I won't be there."

Several former Purdue presidents attended the announcement, including Dr. Martin Jischke, Dr. Steven Beering, and current Purdue President, France Cordova.

Dr. Beering served as Purdue's president for 18 years, from 1983 until 2000, and said he believes Governor Daniels is an ideal candidate for the position.

"He will bring a lot of honor to it, he will bring a lot of good ideas, he will be a conciliator and a unifier and an individual who leads by example," said Dr. Beering.

The committee said they asked Governor Daniels if he would accept the position a few weeks ago and that's when he formally accepted.

Purdue Provost Tim Sands will serve as the interim president for Purdue until Daniels leaves his post as governor.