In each of our lives, not everything lines up in perfect timing. In my case, the unique opportunity to apply for the office of president at Ivy Tech presented itself. As previously stated, I was approached by friends of Ivy Tech about the position to which I gave thoughtful consideration. I then took this opportunity to the governor and we agreed that this might be an even better “seat on the bus” for me as leading Ivy Tech could impact workforce development and the economic future of our state in a very significant way.

The governor and I fully respect the careful process that the Ivy Tech Trustees are following to make this critically important decision. In the same way, I respect the needs of governing through transition, the responsibility of the Legislature, and the election process. For those reasons, I have decided that now is the appropriate time to plan my transition out of the office of lieutenant governor.

I am pleased that Gov. Pence has selected Eric Holcomb as his recommendation to succeed me as lieutenant governor. Eric has had a distinguished career in public service with two of Indiana’s outstanding leaders. He understands state government from his work as Gov (Mitch) Daniel’s deputy chief of staff and the federal government as Sen. (Dan) Coats’ state chief of staff. Further, his service in the Navy demonstrates his commitment to our nation. I look forward to working with Eric as we implement a seamless transition over the coming weeks.

I am grateful to Hoosiers and Gov. Pence for entrusting me with the office of lieutenant governor and its statutory responsibilities. The opportunity to serve this great state of Indiana has been a true honor and one that I pass along with great pride and even higher expectations to Eric Holcomb.