Longevity is not often a term associated with University of Idaho administrators, faculty members, coaches and other employees.
In an era when such people are often caught fleeing UI for greener pastures, there is a lack of continuity at this university. This has not always been the case and last week, it was announced that one of UI’s most tenured administrators will step down from his post in the fall.
UI Dean of Students Bruce Pitman has certainly been the exception to the trend of disappearing staff and administrators. Forty years after he began his career at UI, Pitman made the inevitable decision that the entire campus community, both past and present, hoped would never come.
Pitman, without doubt, has been a model administrator at this university for a number of reasons — primarily his dedication to the institution itself, and more importantly, the student body.
While one cannot blame those who have departed UI for better opportunities — whether that be financially or to take the next step in their career — there’s something to be said for longevity.
Pitman told The Argonaut Monday that, “it’s better to leave when people are encouraging you to stay, rather than wait until they are wishing you’d go.”
Pitman accepted the Greek adviser position at UI in 1973. Throughout the years, he’s done everything from help the university through times of crisis, to greeting UI’s graduating seniors on Commencement Day.
The Dean of Students is also responsible for helping students through tragedy and loss. With the dedication and kind demeanor Pitman brought to his position, such things aren’t necessarily responsibilities, rather opportunities to share his compassion and provide students with genuine care.
Pitman has a genuine love for all students and the university community in general. He is leaving behind a set of shoes that will be impossible to fill.
As Pitman departs, he leaves a legacy of inclusion, communication and dedication. That legacy will live in the halls of UI and in the memories of students, faculty and alumni for years to come.
— TL