New interim vice chancellor named, after Loftin announces departure
The MU Board of Curators Monday announced sweeping changes to the university in the coming months following allegations of racism and a recent hunger strike by a student. On Tuesday, officials named an interim vice chancellor for inclusion, diversity and equity.
Chuck Henson will take over the new position, effective immediately. Henson was previously the associate dean for academic affairs and trial practice at the MU law school.
A student group called “Concerned Student 1950” already issued a list of eight demands for university administrators, and one of them demanded the UM system president resign.
MU System President Tim Wolfe resigned Monday, saying, “Please use this resignation to heal, not to hate.” I ask everybody to use my resignation to heal and start talking again to make the changes necessary.”
At around 4:30 p.m. Monday, the MU Board of Curators also held a news conference where Chancellor Bowen Loftin announced that he will transition from his role as chancellor to director of research facility development, effective January 1.
The Board of Curators addressed the media, saying Wolfe resigned on his own terms, and was not asked to leave by the board.
MU Board of Curators President Donald Cupps said, “The four campuses of this system are the greatest assets this state has. We want to do the best thing for the university.”
“We want to give everyone a chance to receive and education no matter their walk of life, minority, or race,” said Cupps.
Cupps said the Board of Curators will make sweeping changes in the coming year, including that appointment for a chief diversity officer.
A full review of all MU system policies relating to student conduct will be initiated, and support will be provided for the hiring and retention of diverse faculty and staff.
Hank Foley, MU senior vice chancellor for research and vice president for academic affairs has been named as interim chancellor after Loftin transitions to his new position.
