NGU reacts to announcement of new president
John Peardon, Staff Writer
Photo Courtesy of Alex Miller
As Gene Fant prepares to take over as the new president of North Greenville this summer, the university is welcoming him with optimism and open arms.
Randall Pannell has served as the interim president for the past two years, and many believe North Greenville will make the presidential transition well, because of the work he has done. I believe that we are in such a good position, because of the work that Pannell has done, said John Williford, a professor in the North Greenville college of communications. I am praying that God will bless him, said Williford.
Getting a new president is not only a big decision professionally, but it will also add a new dynamic to how North Greenville markets itself. I think the obvious thing with a new president is that we are going to start seeing their face a lot more, said Victor Chasteen, a senior at North Greenville. They are essentially going to be the new face of North Greenville, said Chasteen.
Chasteen also added how he hopes the new president will be active in the activities of the university. I am hoping and expecting him to be an active participant in a lot of North Greenville events, he said. He will be there at sporting events, and we will get to hear his voice in chapel.
Jody Jennings, who serves as the North Greenville Baptist Student Union director, was part of the search committee that chose Fant as the new president. Dr. Fant is very genuine, and hes very authentic in his relationships, said Jennings. I think he is passionate about the gospel.
Jennings said he not only likes Fant as a person, but believes he will help create an atmosphere of hope for the future of the university. I am not only hopeful, but expectant and excited about the opportunities in front of us, said Jennings.
