The President of Bradley University is stepping down after what could be argued a tumultuous tenure – especially in the last year.
The University says Stephen Standifird will resign, effective June 15th.
That’s when Board of Trustees chair Jonathan Michael will take over on an interim basis.
Standifird has only been on the job the last four years, and calls his time in Peoria a “honor and privilege.”
“Together, we have navigated numerous challenges and celebrated many successes,” said Standifird, in a Bradley University Statement. “I am proud of what we have accomplished and am confident that Bradley University will continue to thrive and achieve great things in the future.”
The last year has been particularly tough. Charged with addressing a $13 million budget deficit, Standifird cut a number of staff, faculty, and university programs despite controversy while doing so. Some are being cut as of the end of this academic year, while others will gradually end.
Bradley’s Faculty Senate voted “No Confidence” in Standifird earlier this year, and students protested a number of the cuts. In some cases, students will be able to finish their majors before their programs are cut.
The cuts came after the university purchased the former Avanti’s restaurant near the campus, with an announced intent in 2022 to turn it in to greenspace.
Michael is the retired CEO of RLI Corporation.
“We are grateful to Dr. Standifird for his hard work and leadership during this historic time,” said Michael, in a news release. “He helped the university navigate the pandemic, address enrollment issues, and he took steps to meet financial challenges.”
A national search is expected to begin for a permanent president.
