The University of Oregon has a new leader. The Board of Trustees voted Thursday to hire Provost Scott Coltrane to replace Michael Gottfredson who resigned abruptly Wednesday.
Michael Gottfredson was president of the university for just two years. In March his three-year contract was extended to four. But Gottfredson says he has other academic ambitions and wants to spend time with his family. Thursday the Board of Trustees met to formally accept his resignation and separation agreement. Then they voted to hire Provost Dr. Scott Coltrane. Board Chair Chuck Lillis thanked Coltrane for accepting the new position.
Lillis: "This is a really fascinating time for this university. We have a terrific future right in front of us. Some continuity in this management, the leadership of the university, by someone who is respected by the faculty and is a proven faculty person and scholar is really important."
Coltrane became the Senior Vice President and Provost in February after serving as the interim since July 2013. Gottfredson leaves with a $940,000 severance package.