On July 1, 2013, Youngstown State University President Cynthia Anderson will resign, just three years after being appointed to the position.
“It has been a distinct honor and privilege – and a dream come true – to serve my beloved alma mater as president over the past two and a half years,” Anderson said in an email.
Anderson has had a multifaceted career with YSU, transitioning from professor to administrator to president throughout her nearly 40 year career.
“Youngstown State University has been my home, and you have all been my family. It is because of you that YSU has been such a success, and for that I thank all of you,” Anderson said. “Therefore, it is with mixed emotions that I am announcing today that I will retire as president of YSU”
Sudershan Garg, chair of the board of trustees, called Anderson a “tireless advocate” for YSU students in a released statement.
“Over the course of nearly four decades, her commitment to the university, its students, employees and the community, are unquestioned. Her leadership has made a positive difference, and her enthusiasm will be missed,” according to Garg’s press release.
Anderson has experienced continued losses in state funding and budget deficits as a result, an off-campus shooting, a hazing scandal and pugnacious contract negotiations in her short tenure.
“Together, we have accomplished much during very challenging times. I am certain that the university will continue to flourish in the years ahead,” Anderson said.
The board will begin its search for a new president.
