AUBURN, Ala. (EETV) - Auburn University President Steven Leath has decided to step down from the position, according to a Friday evening press release from the university.
According to the release, Leath's departure comes after "extensive discussions about the university's leadership" with the Board of Trustees' presidential assessment working group.
Leath has served in the role since June 2017. He previously served as president at Iowa State University and vice president for research and sponsored programs for the University of North Carolina System.
A notable achievement under Leath's leadership at Auburn includes the university gaining a Carnegie RI designation for research.
“As I’ve said many times, serving as Auburn’s president has been the highlight of my career,” said Leath. “I’m confident we leave Auburn stronger than when we arrived.”
“Dr. Leath arrived with vision and enthusiasm to take Auburn to the next level,” said Wayne T. Smith, president pro tempore of the university’s board. “We’re grateful for his dedication and commitment as Auburn made strides as a world-class public university. We wish Steve and Janet all the best.”
The Auburn Board will soon convene to name an interim president, according to Smith.
