Some at UCM Baffled by Ousting of President

WARRENSBURG, Mo. – Recent action by the board of governors, to remove the president of the University of Central Missouri, has some people on campus perplexed.

The board recently voted not to renew Aaron Podolefsky’s contract, even though they couldn’t find anything negative to say about him.

The vote was four to three.

Board president Richard Phillips says the board appreciates Podolefsky’s contributions to the university.

Podelofsky also says he is dedicated to the university and looks forward to the rest of his term.

Nearly a dozen tenured professors have spoken out in support of Podolefsky, saying they don’t understand why the board would remove a man who had the support of so many on campus.

The search for a replacement is also likely to be costly.

Podolefsky’s last day is June 30, 2010.

Board of Governors' Statement

"We appreciate the contributions President Podolefsky has made in leading the university through a name change, the current construction projects and successful efforts to improve the academic profile of the university."

Richard Phillips, President, UCM Board of Governors

Aaron Podolefsky's Statement

"Please know that I am extremely proud of UCM's faculty, staff and students. I remain dedicated to our university and look forward to the remaining time we have together in furthering the progress of our outstanding institution."

Aaron Podolefsky, President, University of Central Missouri