Dr. Richard Merriman Named 12th President of the University of Mount Union

ALLIANCE, Ohio – Dr. W. Richard Merriman Jr., president of Southwestern College in Winfield, Kansas, has been named the 12th president of the University of Mount Union, announced Randall Hunt, chair of the Mount Union Board of Trustees and Allen Green, chair of the Presidential Search Committee. The appointment, which concludes a six-month nationwide search, comes upon unanimous decision of trustees during a special meeting of the Board.

Merriman, who has served in his current capacity at Southwestern College since 1998, will succeed Dr. Richard F. Giese, who announced his intention to step down as president this past January at the conclusion of his contract in June, 2015. After a successful 10-year tenure, he and his wife, Sandra, look forward to relocating to Virginia to enjoy quality time with their son, daughter-in-law and grandsons. 

“I am certain Dr. Merriman is the right leader for Mount Union at this time in our history,” said Green. “He brings with him the necessary experience to build upon the incredible foundation that has been built under Dr. Giese’s direction and further guide the University into the future. He has a keen understanding of the institution’s strengths and challenges and a proven track record of innovation and success. We are pleased to welcome someone of his caliber to the Mount Union community.” 

Merriman will begin his official duties as president of Mount Union on July 1, 2015.