Jeffrey Vitter is out as Ole Miss Chancellor, a person with knowledge of the situation confirmed to SuperTalk. The news was first reported by RebelGrove.com
Rebel Grove’s Neal McCready reported in May that Vitter had been informed his contract will not be renewed. A source could not confirm that, but confirmed senior academic leadership was informed of Vitter’s removal Friday morning.
Vitter’s contract runs through June of 2020 and he is expected to remain on faculty in some capacity for the foreseeable future, the source said. An announcement by the University is expected to be made later today.
The IHL issued a statement on the matter on Friday morning. Vitter will continue to serve through January 3, 2019 and continue as Distinguished Professor in the School of Computer and Information Science
“It has been an extraordinary honor and privilege to serve as the leader of the University of Mississippi during a time of great progress and accomplishment,” Dr. Vitter said. “Being the flagship university is not just a designation, it is a responsibility — to transform lives, communities, and the world. I am gratified that we have grown dramatically in impact, stature, and commitment in the past three years. We are stronger academically, enjoy more support in private giving and research funding, and engage more proactively with the world around us. In addition, we are a more diverse community with a more visible dedication to inclusion and civility.
“There is no more important role on a university campus than as a faculty member,” Dr. Vitter said. “I am excited about the opportunity as a faculty member to advance the university’s research and academic excellence. Both Sharon and I will remain strong citizens of Rebel Nation.”
The IHL stated an interim chancellor will be named soon. The full statement can be found here.
We will continue to update this story as information becomes available.
