Ronald Johnson
Tennessee State University interim president Ronald Johnson has resigned less than six months after he began his tenure. According to a letter submitted to Tennessee State, the resignation is due to concerns Johnson has with the university’s board.
"This decision is not made lightly," Johnson writes. "It has become apparent that there is a fundamental difference of perspective with the Board on how best to move this institution forward."
The resignation is effective Friday, Dec. 13.
Johnson’s move comes as TSU faces financial challenges and a noticeable enrollment drop.
As we reported in late June, Johnson was to have served in the role for one year (starting July 1) while the TSU board conducted a national search for a permanent leader to replace the since-departed Dr. Glenda Glover.
Move comes as comptroller's office issues audit reports including findings from 2019
TSU's current board was appointed by Gov. Bill Lee in March when state legislators passed a bill vacating the board seats. The previous board had been in the midst of a presidential search, having named three finalists in March just before the turnover.
Previously, Johnson was interim president at Kentucky State University, where he managed operations and addressed financial challenges at the institution. From 2015 to 2018 he served as president of Clark Atlanta University, where he led turnaround plans.
This article was first published by our sister publication, the Nashville Post.
