Nelms ends term, bids farewell to University

Just because Charlie Nelms is leaving IU does not mean his energy and passion for equality will be forgotten. \n“I want to challenge you to make sure that the appointments you make reflect a commitment in equity and excellence through all our dimensions of our University and community,” said Nelms, the former vice president of institutional development and student affairs. \nOn July 25, the Neal-Marshall Black Culture Center held a farewell reception for Nelms, who announced in June he would be leaving IU for a chancellor position at North Carolina Central University. \nThe dimmed Ruth N. Halls Theatre in the Neal-Marshall Black Culture Center was filled with students and faculty. Nelms and his wife Jeanetta sat patiently in collapsible chairs on the side of the stage.\nIU President Michael McRobbie was the first guest speaker during the reception. McRobbie talked about how Nelms always enforced respect within the community. McRobbie’s speech was followed by faculty members presenting different gifts such as a painted portrait of him, picture frames and a sculpture. \nBloomington Mayor Mark Kruzan presented Nelms with a plaque declaring July 25 “Charlie and Jeanetta Nelms Day” in Bloomington. \nNelms spoke last at the reception as he thanked IU for his opportunities over the past two decades. \n“They say you can’t go home again,” he said. “That’s not a true statement because I’ve been able to come back to Indiana on a number of occasions.” \nNelms ended his speech by urging the audience to not forget Africa and the issues of \ndiversity. \nVicki Roberts, assistant vice chancellor for academic support and diversity, said she’s known Nelms for more than 12 years and is sad he is leaving. She said his energy, passion and vision will always be around the University even if he is not. \nRoberts said the reception for Nelms was a great way to end his vice presidency.\n“I think people enjoyed (the reception),” she said. “There are a lot of expressions of good will. It shows how much he’s loved.” \nSenior Susan Johnson spoke on behalf of Higher Education and Student Affairs as well as other students. She said she has known Nelms since she came to IU. She said she was interested in becoming vice president for student affairs one day, and her relationship with Nelms “clicked.” \n“He was someone who loved and looked out for me and for my family,” she said.\nJohnson explained that Nelms was the conscience of the University, always reminding people not to forget certain issues. \n“He was more than a vice president,” she said. “He was a mentor.”