The Rotary Club of Shepherdstown welcomed Shepherd University President Dr. Mary J.C. Hendrix at this week’s meeting, where she provided an update on the university’s progress and future plans.
Dr. Hendrix, who became Shepherd’s 16th president in 2016 and the first alumna to serve in the role, recently announced that she will step down at the end of the 2025–26 academic year. A graduate of Shepherd with a degree in pre-med/biology, she went on to earn her Ph.D. at George Washington University before building an impressive career in research and higher education leadership, including positions at Northwestern University, the University of Iowa, Saint Louis University, and the University of Arizona.
During her tenure, Shepherd has seen significant growth and change, including campus redevelopment, expanded facilities, and a new dining and athletic complex currently under construction. Dr. Hendrix has been recognized for her leadership and her commitment to the university’s mission of service to students and the community.
Looking ahead, she will continue her work in science and medicine as Chair of the Scientific Advisory Board for TaiRx US, Inc., focusing on advancing treatments for cancer patients. The Shepherd University Board of Governors will begin the process of selecting the next president in the coming months.
Dr. Hendrix singled out several club members for their dedication, including Austin Slater, President of the Shepherd University Foundation; Marcia Brand, who headed the search committee that brought Dr. Hendrix back to Shepherd; Eric and Joy Lewis, chosen as Alumni of the Year; and Jim King, for pro bono contributions to campus designs and planning.
The Rotary Club thanks Dr. Hendrix for her vision, dedication, and leadership, and congratulates her on a decade of service to Shepherd University.
The accompanying photo from left to right shows Sherri Janelle, Executive Vice President of the Shepherd University Foundation; Austin Slater, Dr. Mary J.C. Hendrix, Marcia Brand, and club president, Dale Homan.