Loras College extends president's contract

Loras College officials announced Friday they have extended the contract of President Jim Collins by an additional four years.

The extension was a unanimous decision by the Loras board of regents, chairman John Schmidt said in a statement.

Collins began as Loras' president in June 2004. In June 2008, the board gave Collins a six-year contract, which was set to expire in May 2014. The new contract replaces his current agreement and extends his term as president through May 2018.

A comprehensive evaluation in the past year showed support among the board, faculty, students, staff and alumni for Collins' strong leadership, Schmidt said.

"Jim has brought stability to the presidency, renewed confidence in the college and provided an unwavering commitment to the people of Loras, especially our students," Schmidt said in the statement.

Collins began his career with Loras in 1984 as an admissions representative. In his 29 years with the college, he held positions as director of special projects, director of alumni and college relations, interim director of development, assistant to the president and vice president for institutional advancement.