RIT’s next president is William Sanders

On Jan. 28, RIT announced in an event at the Gordon Field House that their eleventh president would be William ‘Bill’ Sanders, who comes from Carnegie Mellon University as the dean of the College of Engineering. 

The announcement concluded a year-long search to find President David Munson’s successor after announcing his decision to step down last April, ending a tenure that started in 2017. For the search process, RIT partnered with executive search firm Isaacson, Miller. The firm also assisted in the search for the College of Liberal Arts’ new dean, as well as the search that led to Munson’s appointment.

During the announcement remarks, Munson, who will retire in June, gave his best wishes to Sanders. The two were both researchers at the University of Illinois at the same time, so this was a reunion for them.

“I am thrilled to have Bill as my successor because his appointment ensures that our future is secure and that the university's upward trajectory will continue,” Munson said. “RIT has a history of choosing the right leader at the right time, and I'm so pleased to say that we've done it again. As you embark on this journey, Nancy and I have a simple wish for you. That you would find your time at RIT to be exciting, fulfilling and richly productive,” he added.

Sanders expressed hope that he will be able to continue to improve the campus community, with a special focus on research and maintaining the university’s arts and humanities. He will also work closely with the board of trustees and NTID, which is currently undergoing a search for a new president as well.

“I’m looking forward to becoming part of this incredible community. I know that I, and the community, is building on a position of real strength and I’m looking forward to getting to know all the students,” Sanders said.

After the announcement, students and staff had an opportunity to meet with Sanders. First-year student Krishav Gandhi shared their expectations for the new president.

“I'm really excited about the announcement of the new president and I can't wait to see what kind of new era he's going to usher in for RIT,” they said.

Sanders will take office on July 1, with his first convocation address expected to be delivered to the class of 2029 in August. He will be a central figure in RIT’s upcoming strategic plan over the next few years.