[8] In his inaugural address, Hess stated, Our true academic mission — to liberally educate each and every student — is a timeless reminder of the lives we change here at Wabash College, one young man at a time.

Amidst the jostle and the fray and the haranguing static and noise that often surround our academic endeavor, stands our foundation: the simple gifts of the liberal arts.

[11] Hess also presided over a campus master planning process intended to guide capital works projects at the college and join the Board of Directors of the Montgomery County Economic Development Council.

[15][16] Hess's resignation followed widespread criticism from students and alumni regarding his administration's communication, particularly in light of a decision to end the 187-year practice of distributing sheepskin diplomas to college graduates.

[17][18] However, Hess denied the impact of these concerns in an exit interview with a student newspaper, noting: It wasn't my job to be loved at Wabash College.