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November 7, 2008, 10:25 AM ET
Colorado State U.'s President Exits Abruptly
Larry E. Penley, Colorado State University’s president since 2003, resigned suddenly on Wednesday, surprising many on the Fort Collins campus and around the state. In a written statement, Mr. Penley said he wanted to be “free to pursue other leadership positions in higher education.” His last day will be November 30.
The university has made significant strides toward enhancing its research clout during his tenure. Mr. Penley earned praise for Colorado State’s full-court press on environmental initiatives, including a giant wind farm and a pledge to be carbon-neutral by 2020. The university also drew attention for its creative approach to technology transfer. (Mr. Penley explained that strategy in an audio interview last January with The Chronicle.)
Local newspapers reported that some students and faculty members have grumbled about the costs of Mr. Penley’s plans, particularly as tuition has increased in recent years.
Colorado’s public universities have long struggled with relatively skimpy support from the state. On Tuesday the state’s voters rejected a ballot initiative that would have funneled tax revenue from oil and gas companies to need-based scholarships for residents attending state institutions. —Paul Fain
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