State board accepts Pernsteiner's resignation; plans to name interim by March 1

The Oregon State Board of Higher Education met today and accepted the resignation of Oregon University System Chancellor George Pernsteiner. The board also approved the terms of Pernsteiner's separation agreement.

“On behalf of the board and the students we serve, I would like to thank Chancellor Pernsteiner for his many contributions to our state,” said Matt Donegan, president of the State Board of Higher Education. “George is a caring public servant who leaves the university system well-positioned to leverage our current strengths, despite long-standing disinvestment in higher education here in Oregon."

Pernsteiner’s separation agreement stipulates that he will remain in his current role through March 1 and will continue to contribute on a special assignment through March 31, helping to facilitate a successful leadership transition.

Donegan said the board will wait to see whether the Oregon Legislature changes the governance struture for higher education in Oregon during this year’s session before choosing a permanent replacement for Pernsteiner. The board's goal is to pick an interim chancellor by March 1.

Board members recognized Chancellor Pernsteiner’s service to the state, its students and university community. Pernsteiner thanked the board, Chancellor’s Office staff, the legislature, governors under whom he has worked, students and the campus community.