Wilmington College Board of Trustees announces immediate departure of President Trevor Bates; board appoints Dr. Corey Cockerill interim president

The Board of Trustees of Wilmington College Friday evening announced the departure of President Trevor Bates, effective immediately.

This decision follows thorough and careful discernment by the Board and was made with the best interests of the College and its community at heart, according to a news release issued by the Board of Trustees.

"It is with great disappointment that we announce that Dr. Bates is no longer employed at Wilmington College," said Richard Sidwell, Chair of the Board. "While we understand this decision may be unexpected for some members of our community, it came after much discussion and discernment and is what we believe is in the best future interest of both the College and Dr. Bates.

"We appreciate Dr. Bates' contributions during his tenure but have agreed that the College needs a new leader to move forward."

Wilmington College has a long-standing commitment to upholding the values and principles of its Quaker heritage, which emphasize integrity, equality and community. These values have guided the College since its founding in 1870 and remain central to its mission today.

During this transitional period, the Board has appointed Dr. Corey Cockerill, a respected leader within the College community, as interim president. This will ensure a "smooth and uninterrupted continuation" of its academic and administrative activities.

Cockerill, a faculty member since 2008, serves as assistant dean of academic affairs/professor of communication arts and agriculture. (Editor’s note: Cockerill, of Leesburg, is also a member of the Fairfield Local Schools Board of Education.)

"Corey has a deep understanding of Wilmington College's history and values and will be working closely with the faculty, staff, students and the Board of Trustees to navigate this time of change," Sidwell said. "The Board of Trustees has complete confidence in Corey to lead as president during this critical period."

The Wilmington College Board of Trustees will engage the entire College community as it commences a search to select the College’s 20th president. More information about the search process will be shared in the coming weeks.

"The Board of Trustees would like to express its sincere gratitude to the Wilmington College community for their patience, understanding, and continued dedication during this challenging time," Sidwell said. "The Board remains steadfast in its dedication to providing a high-quality educational experience to its students and is confident that, with the support of its dedicated faculty, staff, students and alumni, it will continue to thrive."