In a remarkable turn of events, the University of Louisville is witnessing a change in leadership following the sudden resignation of its president. The university’s board of trustees made the swift decision to appoint her successor without going through the typical extensive national search.
Kim Schatzel, who until recently held the position of president at this prestigious Atlantic Coast Conference school, stepped down with immediate effect. Gerry Bradley, who was previously the university’s executive vice president and provost, has been selected by the trustees as the new president. The announcement came on Wednesday, though no details were provided regarding the reason behind Schatzel’s unexpected departure.
Diane Medley, the chair of the board, expressed gratitude towards Schatzel for her two years of service. “Her tenure witnessed significant strides, such as boosting student enrollment and retention rates, enhancing the university’s standing as a leading research institution,” Medley acknowledged in her statement.
Schatzel’s association with the University of Louisville followed her tenure as president at Towson University in Maryland. She had committed to a long-term vision for UofL, bringing to an end the extensive search for a suitable successor to Neeli Bendapudi, who had taken on the role of president at Penn State University.
As the choice of the trustees, Bradley brings a wealth of executive experience to the table. His notable contributions include employing deans, managing successful accreditation renewals, and nurturing the development of premier academic programs.
“We completely trust President Bradley and his strategic vision for the future of the university,” affirmed Medley. “His leadership will further our commitment to advancing student achievements, research, and community engagement. The institution remains in capable hands under Dr. Bradley and his administration.”
Bradley had contemplated other opportunities, including a significant role at the University of Cincinnati, but confessed, “My heart remains with the University of Louisville.” He had previously served as interim provost at UofL on two different occasions earlier in the decade.
“Together with our team, we are poised to elevate this university to unprecedented levels,” Bradley stated on Wednesday. “Combining our recent achievements with our longstanding academic heritage, we aim to cultivate an environment where every student, faculty member, and staff can thrive.”
The University of Louisville celebrated a record-high enrollment last autumn, welcoming its largest incoming class and achieving its highest-ever student retention rate.
In light of her separation from the university, Schatzel will receive a departure package amounting to $400,000, along with an additional sum of $300,000 distributed through monthly payments, as outlined by the institution.