One could feel a sense of mixed emotions when Washington College broke the news this week that its board of visitors and governors had appointed Sheila Bair as its 28th president. This had nothing to do with Ms. Bair or her impressive qualifications, but rather the sad acknowledgement that Jack “Jay” Griswold would be stepping down as interim president as a result.
The call to service takes on many forms in one’s life, but rarely has it been a more unpredictable sojourn than Jay Griswold becoming WC’s acting CEO last summer.
For a man who had finally started to enjoy the rewards of semi-retirement after many years of hard earned success in finance, and who had also put in his time as a board chair for Washington College, as well as many other leading Maryland institutions, the image of working fourteen hour days seems incredulous to Griswold and anyone who knew him.
But a knock on his door by Washington College’s leaders last May changed that equation. WC had just been shocked by the surprise announcement that its current president would be leaving to run the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation. With a major capital campaign just beginning, and intense pressure to keep the momentum going for student recruitment, the impact of Mitchell Riess’ unanticipated departure was keenly felt on campus. They needed a Jay Griswold to steady the ship.
And steady the ship he has. With an “all in” commitment by wife Toni, the Griswolds have not only succeeded in keeping the college functioning, they have brought a unique warmth and kindness to Chestertown that has kept spirits and aspirations exceptionally high for the 233-year-old school.
Equally impressive was Jay Griswold’s determination to keep moving on key priorities. It would have been quite understanding for an acting president to hold off on major fundraising considering the short term in office, but Griswold charged ahead nonetheless raise leadership gifts, knowing it meant constant travel and intense personal pressure on himself.
Finally, Jay has brought a sense of fun to Chestertown. One look at him in the midst of students, or at sporting events, or walking down High Street, showed a man enjoying himself and his work.
Griswold has repeatedly said that he’s not going anywhere after the new president takes over. He intends to continue with fundraising and making friendships for the college. The college and community can be very thankful for that, but perhaps it can start by acknowledging how lucky it has been that Jay Griswold stepped up for Washington College.
Nancy McGuire says
Having Jay Griswold among us for even this short period of time, reminds us how very fine a person can be. Even someone as accomplished as Shiela Bair, will find it a challenge to follow.
Fletcher R. Hall says
Very well stated, Dave,
Thanks to Mr. Griswold.
Fletcher R. Hall
WC Class of ’63
Leslie Jean Roche says
Bravo! This tribute to Mr. Griswold made me wish I knew him. I am just happy that Washington College and beautiful Chestertown does!
Stephan Sonn says
He was not just a place minder after a lost attempt, but a quiet hero, who saw the negative implications
and made them go away, so a new president could get a clean start. That quality of mind and impact
is unique among humans and even more rare in a parched and unexpectedly stranded environment.
To some these events were a notch on a resume but if you are invested in character this chapter is the proof.
Chris Cerino says
Jay was truly a pleasure to work with over the past year. His love for Washington College – and Chestertown – was infections and carried into his work and his interactions with our citizens. I look forward to meeting Sheila Bair, but Jay will certainly be missed!
william short says
Jay is someone I have come to know through various activities and one of the biggest had been when Jay stepped up with the County and the citizens to testify in Annapolis in regards to Apex and the fight against the Industrial wind project. He will remain a strong voice for the County and the College .I wish him well in all he does now and his future plans……Thanks Jay for the brief time I’ve had to get to know you.
Commissioner Bill Short
Sam Martin says
Jay Griswold is a good, decent man. Not much more is needed. Oh, he can also laugh and make you laugh. At least he can with me. I’m awfully glad to know him.