Dobson Resigns
By Julie Gidlow
Updated 5 Hour(s) 41 Minute(s) ago
Dr. James Dobson has resigned as board chairman of Focus on the Family. However, Dobson will continue to host the conservative Christian ministry's flagship radio program and write the group's newsletter.
Dobson's wife, National Day of Prayer chairman Shirley Dobson, has also stepped down from the board. They have been elected founder/chairman emeritus and director emerita, respectively, for the group they founded in 1977.
James Dobson relinquished president and CEO duties six years ago; his resignation as chairman is part of that succession plan. Assuming the chairmanship is Lt. Gen. Patrick P. Caruana, a board member since 1996 and vice chairman since 2006.
The board of directors issued this statement: "One of Dr. Dobson's objectives during the last decade has been to help identify the next generation of leadership for the ministry and to see it established securely before he stepped away from administrative oversight. That purpose has now been fulfilled, and we applaud Dr. Dobson for this concern for the future of the ministry."
James Dobson commented, "One of the common errors of founder-presidents is to hold to the reins of leadership too long, thereby preventing the next generation from being prepared for executive authority. I have wanted not to make that mistake with Focus on the Family, which is why I stepped back, first from the presidential duties six years ago and now from board chairmanship. Though letting go is difficult after three decades of intensive labor, it is the wise thing to do."
President/CEO Jim Daly said that the ministry will "forever be committed to the fulfillment of the mission so definitively served by both Dr. and Mrs. Dobson -- helping families thrive. The Dobsons have dedicated their lives to Focus on the Family. He is my mentor and friend -- and an inspiration and role model to millions of Americans."