UMass Dartmouth Chancellor Divina Grossman is stepping down on December 24th of this year.

 

The Boston Globe reported last month that UMass President Marty Meehan was looking to replace Grossman, in part because of declining enrollment and a drop off in fundraising.

In a statement issued on Friday, Grossman conceeded she faced some very difficult budget challenges right from the start. She said she fully respects and accepts President Meehan's prerogative in building his leadership team.

During her 3 1/2 years as chancellor, Grossman says her team has accomplished much, including the development of a strategic plan that strengthens UMass Dartmouth's position as a research university.

Grossman says she'll remain a member of the UMass faculty, and looks forward to being active in the University and South Coast community.

Presdent Meehan said he respected Grossman's decision to step down.  He said  Grossman is a true believer in public higher education and a tireless advocate for UMass Dartmouth.

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