Weeren named Tilghman's speechwriter

President Tilghman named John S. Weeren, formerly a Mudd Manuscript Library archivist, as her new assistant and speechwriter yesterday. He is currently an archivist at Moravian University, and will begin working full-time at the University in April.

"I hope that my facility with words and research skills will be helpful to the President as she articulates her message in many different contexts," Weeren said. He intends to draw on his familiarity with the history and traditions of Princeton to provide depth to Tilghman's communications.

"In addition to being an excellent writer, John brings a deep knowledge and appreciation of Princeton's history and a broad interest in the life of the campus," Tilghman said in a statement announcing his appointment. "He has already done some writing for me, and I greatly look forward to working with him on a wide range of projects."

Weeren first joined the University as archivist in 1994. He was named head of public services for Mudd Library in 1998 and worked on numerous projects regarding University press releases in addition to the archive collections.

In that capacity Weeren not only wrote and edited University memoranda but also drafted remarks for Tilghman when she has had to introduce speakers at various library events. "I have a familiarity with the tone that Tilghman is comfortable with, and she has been pleased with the quality of my work," he said.

While serving as the college archivist at Moravian College in Pennsylvania since 2001, Weeren has remained a consultant for the University's Department of Rare Books and Special Collections. He recently contributed to Firestone Library's current exhibition honoring George Kennan.

Weeren has also worked for the Dartmouth Heritage Museum in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia, the University of King's College, and the National Archives of Canada.

His new job will entail working with Tilghman on speeches, reports, and statements while also representing the president's office at meetings and events." It's a very exciting opportunity, and I feel honored to work with the President and use my talents to the fullest," he said.