UVA Board of Visitors meeting to replace President Sullivan - NBC12.com - Richmond, VA News

A huge crowd gathers on the lawn at UVA to cheer for outgoing President Teresa Sullivan and ask for answers on why she's leaving.

A closed-door meeting is underway where a decision is being made about her replacement.

The Board of Visitors said a committee would be created to name an interim president.

President Sullivan spoke with the board privately before stepping out to a pumped up crowd that fell silent to hear her speak.

A rock star greeting for President Sullivan.

"I want to thank you for making this so great at the end of the day that's most important UVA must remain a great university," said Sullivan.

Sullivan high-fived supporters as she walked through the crowd two thousand deep moments after addressing the board.

"It's very disappointing, I have no problem if somebody's not doing their job with letting them know setting up goals I just don't like how all this has been done," said UVA grad Ann Parks.

After two years at the helm, the first woman to lead the university stepped down citing "philosophical differences" between her and the board.

Sullivan reportedly was criticized for her fundraising efforts.

UVA students, faculty and staff are calling for transparency.

"There's a sense that something is broken here many students are sitting outside your meeting because they care.  The most common element of their concern is a desire for a better explanation," said student Board of Visitors representative, Hillary Hurd.

Former UVA President John Casteen is also hoping for public disclosure.

"The solution to silence or lack is more talk not less that's how we deal with disagreements," said Casteen.
The board will set up a committee made up of students staff and faculty to name an interim president.

"While our actions in this matter were firmly grounded in what we believe to be the very best in long term interest in the university we want to express our sincere regret for the pain anger and confusion," said Rector Helen Dragas.

The Faculty Senate wants the rector and vice rector to resign over Sullivan's exit.

In a statement, the rector said it wasn't the board's intention to ignite such a reaction.

President Sullivan's resignation is effective August 15th.