Concordia searching for new president, regents say

The last president, Charles Schlimpert, helped the school grow from 350 to 5,000 pupils in Portland.

Need a new job?

How about something managing the educational experiences of 5,000 students at Oregon's largest private nonprofit university — located in a tree-lined campus in Northeast Portland, of course.

If this sounds like you, give Concordia University a call.

The Concordia University Board of Regents has already begun a search for its fifth president, and says its national hunt will accord with the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod bylaws.

In the meantime, Dr. Johnnie R. Driessner will serve as the school's interim president.

"Concordia Portland's future is bright as we continue to expand our service to students and the community in line with our Christian mission to prepare leaders for the transformation of society," said Dr. Driessner, a 38-year veteran with the educational institution.

"It is a great honor to serve with the students, faculty, staff, and broader community as, together, we build a safer, healthier, and more educated population," he continued.

After 35 years in the top spot, President Charles Schlimpert retired on July 1 of this year. When he took office, the school had about 350 students. Concordia was founded in 1905.