University of Richmond's Board of Trustees Confirm Their Support for President Cooper
December 2, 2005
The University of Richmond’s Board of Trustees voted today during a special session to support the vision and strategic direction of the university. The board also voted to support President William E. Cooper to continue as president.
The decision was made following a thorough review of President Cooper’s leadership of the university since his appointment in 1998. As part of this review process, the board examined President Cooper’s recent comments and expressed deep disappointment.
“The board recognizes the need for President Cooper to address issues and relationships with the university’s constituencies and to work closely with the board,” said Otis D. Coston, Jr., rector of the board. “The board and the president will jointly develop a plan of action to address these issues and improve relationships. The board will monitor and evaluate the president’s progress on an on-going basis.”
“I am deeply honored to serve this great institution, its board, its students, its faculty, its staff and its alumni,” said President Cooper. “Their profound affection for the university is evident and something we can build upon as we continue to move forward.”
“I offer thanks to both those who have lent support and to those who have offered criticism during this challenging time,” added Cooper. “The university is deserving of all of our best efforts, and I commit to working closely with the board to achieve its directives.”
Among President Cooper’s and his administration’s most notable achievements are the creation of one of the nation’s most comprehensive and generous financial aid programs, the hiring of a significant number of additional faculty, the completion of several major capital projects, Richmond’s move to the top tier of the national liberal arts universities, and the establishment of an active Center for Civic Engagement.
“In the best interests of the university, let us all accept the board’s decision and move forward with our important work in a spirit of goodwill,” said Rector Coston.