In an interview in late February, Matthews said that, as Northeastern prepares for its second century, it makes sense to make way for a new board leader. It's time for somebody else's new dream, somebody else's new effort. The Corporation is scheduled to elect Matthews' successor at its annual meeting May 21. At that time, the group will also select other new officers, as recommended by the Board of Trustees' nominating committee. Matthews, who worked alongside presidents John Curry and Richard Freeland, said he is confident that he's leaving the top trustee post at a time when Northeastern is on firm footing.
Finances are in good shape.
We have a very good president in place, a very good administration and staff. We put up some outstanding facilities, and we did it during not very good economic times. We've attracted brilliant faculty members. And I think our students are of a higher caliber than when I came in. I think the university is really on a roll right now.