Eric Vettell signs off as WWPL executive director

When I was younger and had the time and inclination, I would often go backpacking with friends. We tried to live by a simple rule: leave behind a better place than you found. It is a simple rule and I do my best to live up to it, to leave no burdens behind. Always.

After more than four highly productive and extremely rewarding years as executive director of the Woodrow Wilson Presidential Library, I have decided to retire (“Wilson to head presidential library,” May 26). I can assure you, it was not an easy decision to make. It is never easy to leave a position as enjoyable and satisfying as this. But it is time for me to begin a new and different chapter. I will miss the challenging work on behalf of the library. I will miss the inspiring mission of the library. I will miss the determined effort to build an institution. And most of all, I will miss very much the many friends that I’ve made along the way. 

Though there is enough to keep me busy, I am at ease knowing that this great and talented staff will sustain the healthy momentum and use it to create an even brighter future. Of course it is comforting that Don Wilson, former archivist of the United States and former director of the Eisenhower, Ford and Bush presidential library foundations, will be at the helm when I’m gone.

We have accomplished more in four years than anyone ever dreamed or thought possible. And even though all transitions are fraught with risk, I fully expect that the Woodrow Wilson Presidential Library will become even better and stronger during its next phase. Your continued support of the Woodrow Wilson Presidential Library will be deeply appreciated by many, including me.

I’m still here through June 30 and will, of course, be around on occasion. I hope we cross paths again soon.