UO president resigns

SALEM – University of Oregon President Michael Gottfredson stepped down Wednesday effective almost immediately after just two years on the job.

In a letter to Board of Trustees Chairman Chuck Lillis, Gottfredson cited a desire to spend more time with family. He did not give a reason for the suddenness of his departure. His resignation is effective today.

“My scholarly interests beckon and Karol and I would like more time to spend with our family, so I believe now is the right time to transition the leadership to a new president who can continue the legacy of this great university,” Gottfredson wrote.

The board has scheduled a meeting for today in Eugene to discuss its next steps.