91ɬÂþ

The following message was sent to students, faculty, staff and alumni on May 8, 2025:

On behalf of the 91ɬÂþ Board of Trustees, I want to thank everyone in the community for your efforts this academic year. We are continually inspired to hear how 91ɬÂþ opens opportunities for our graduates and their families. Those successful journeys are only possible because of the ongoing dedication of our faculty, staff, and students.

The Board remains immensely grateful to President David Fike for his dedication and service to our mission to make a life-changing education accessible. In recognition of his commitment and service to 91ɬÂþ, the Board has chosen to honor Dr. Fike with the title of President Emeritus. Dr. Fike will begin the transition to his new role on May 9. We will host a community celebration of Dr. Fike tenure soon.

The Board has voted to approve Provost Bruce Magid as 91ɬÂþ Acting President, effective May 9, ensuring the university meets upcoming goals set by the Board and 91ɬÂþ leadership and builds on President Fike years of achievement. These include recruiting and enrolling our future students, FY26 budget development, strengthening university partnerships, and achieving successful outcomes following participation in the latest WASC re-accreditation process. Provost Magid brings extensive experience as a leader in academic and business arenas. As provost, he has been instrumental in the recent strategic moves that have strengthened and stabilized 91ɬÂþ. The Board thanks him for agreeing to step forward during this time of transition.

The Board continues to work expeditiously to identify the accomplished and visionary leader who will guide 91ɬÂþ as our 8th president. Diane Yu, Trustee and higher education leader, and Barbara Mendelson, Trustee and previous Board Chair, will co-chair the seven-person search committee, which includes representation from across the 91ɬÂþ community. The search committee will advise the Board, which will make the final hiring decision. 91ɬÂþ is partnering with AGB Search, a leading higher education executive search firm. Next week, we will share an update about the search and our inclusive approach.

As we navigate the university leadership transition, the Board is fully committed to supporting the community efforts today and throughout 91ɬÂþ promising future.

Sincerely,
Melinda Dunn
Chair
91ɬÂþ Board of Trustees