In a surprise leadership shakeup, Ursinus College in Collegeville has parted ways with President Robyn E. Hannigan, writes Susan Snyder for The Philadelphia Inquirer.
Hannigan led the liberal arts institution since 2022. She confirmed Thursday that the decision came from the board of trustees and was “not for cause,” describing her departure as a “friendly separation.”
The announcement comes just ahead of the Collegeville school’s homecoming weekend and follows a year of enrollment and financial strain. The college reported a 10% decline in first-year enrollment and a 6.4% overall dip this fall, with total enrollment now at 1,406 students. Retention among returning freshmen also fell to 77%, below the school’s average.
During her tenure, Hannigan launched the APEX program. The career-focused initiative offers students up to $2,000 for internships, hands-on learning, and professional coaching aimed at boosting recruitment and outcomes.
Board chair Joseph DeSimone, a 1986 Ursinus graduate and Stanford professor, announced that Provost Gundolf Graml will serve as interim president. In a statement, the board said the decision was made “in the best interests of the college’s long-term success,” adding that Ursinus’ mission and commitment to students remain unchanged.
To read more about the leadership transition at Ursinus College, visit The Philadelphia Inquirer.
