Decatur, IL –Jim Reynolds, Ph.D, the 16th President of Millikin University, announced he will retire June 30, 2025. Elected in July 2020, Reynolds led the university through the COVID-19 pandemic and worked on the financial restructuring of the university, introducing the Millikin Tuition Promise and the Big Blue Pledge. The relationship between Millikin and Richland Community College was also strengthened under Reynolds to allow for an easier transfer process.

His tenure saw the opening of the Center for Theatre & Dance, construction of the Health Sciences Center, and the forthcoming Rathje Athletic Center.

“After spending time reflecting on my career in higher education and with input from my wife Sue, I realize that the next chapter of my life needs to shift towards more focus on our family,” Reynolds said. “Millikin is a special place and will always hold a special place in our hearts. But there is a season for everything and it’s time for me to be with my family as Sue and I celebrate the joy of being grandparents.  I am proud to have been a small part of the history of this institution and to come back to my hometown and for that, I will be forever grateful.”  

The Board of Trustees will announce the next steps soon.