President of Roger Williams University Resigns Suddenly
Wednesday, July 07, 2010
The president of Roger Williams University, Roy J. Nirschel, resigned before the July 4 weekend, the university announced yesterday.
The university did not say why Nirschel had suddenly stepped down. Brian Clark, a Roger Williams spokesman, said Nirschel had made his decision after a private meeting with Richard L. Bready, the chairman of the university’s board of trustees. “They came to the mutual decision that it was a right time for a change in leadership and this was the result,” Clark said.
The resignation was effective July 2.
GET THE LATEST BREAKING NEWS HERE -- SIGN UP FOR GOLOCAL FREE DAILY EBLASTThe board of trustees is now on the hunt for an interim president. “Transitions at any institution present challenges and opportunities, and Roger Williams is well prepared and positioned for this one,” Bready said, in a statement. “The Board of Trustees has established a search process for a new president, and the Office of the Chairman will appoint interim executive leadership shortly.”
Nirschel had served as president since August 2001. The university said that during his tenure, Roger Williams had “accomplished a great deal,” saying he was leaving it in solid financial health with a strong faculty, great academic programs, and excellent facilities. The university said Nirschel will spend his time traveling and relaxing, until he decides what to do next.
