ATLANTA – Spelman College has announced that Dr. Helene Gayle will not return from her leave of absence and will resign permanently from her role as president. This news was shared by the historically Black women’s institution on Thursday.

The college, which is home to over 3,000 students, has not disclosed the reasons behind Dr. Gayle’s initial departure or her decision not to come back.

In a statement, the board of trustees indicated they are in the process of creating a strategy to select a new president for the college. In the interim, Rosalind “Roz” Brewer will continue to lead as the acting president.

“I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Gayle for her contributions to this remarkable institution,” Brewer mentioned in a video message. “I’m also eager to carry on my responsibilities as your interim president.”

Brewer has a notable background, having previously served as chair of the college’s board of trustees and is also a part-owner of the Atlanta Falcons NFL team.

In her statement, Gayle expressed her appreciation for the Spelman community, saying, “This has been a tremendous opportunity to serve as president. I have thoroughly enjoyed my time interacting with the exceptional students and future leaders who have chosen to attend Spelman College. I eagerly anticipate my next chapter.”

Dr. Gayle assumed the presidency at Spelman in 2022, following the retirement of former president Mary Schmidt Campbell. The college is part of the prestigious Atlanta University Center, which consists of four historically Black colleges and universities.

Prior to her role at Spelman, Gayle served as president of the Chicago Community Trust, one of the largest community foundations in the United States. She comes with a wealth of experience as an epidemiologist, having spent many years addressing AIDS and HIV issues, and also led a global anti-poverty organization.

Brewer has had an impressive tenure as chair of the board, serving for 12 years during which she collaborated with three presidents of Spelman and led two of the most successful fundraising initiatives in the college’s history. Her previous roles include serving as president and CEO of Walgreens Boots Alliance, as well as holding positions as chief operating officer of Starbucks and CEO of Sam’s Club.