After 12 years and $1.1 billion, what's left for a president to do?
During the last five years, President Shapiro has spent a significant amount of his time away from the institution he leads.Instead of strolling through ivy-covered archways, taking in the view of Cannon Green from his first-floor Nassau Hall office or watching Princeton students hustle between classes, the president of the nation's top university has been traversing chaotic airport terminals, climbing onto cramped airplanes and spending night after night in countless hotels.And his fund-raising efforts have resulted in endowment growth almost as marked as that of his frequent flyer balance.With the completion of the $1.1 billion Anniversary Campaign for Princeton on June 30, Shapiro has led the most successful fund-raising effort in the University's history.The funds have helped finance new academic and research programs, expand the financial aid program and launch many new and ongoing construction projects, such as Scully Hall, Frist Campus Center and dormitory renovations.A fund-raising campaign of such magnitude typically represents the flagship accomplishment of a university president's tenure.And for Shapiro, passing that benchmark in his 12th year at the University's helm calls into question his future plans.Former University President Robert Goheen '40 said, "It does happen frequently" that University presidents resign after holding the post for "10 or 12 years" and completing their campaigns."Being president of a major university is a major responsibility, and especially taxing," Goheen said.