Spelman College announced that Helene Gayle, president of the historically Black women’s college in Atlanta, will not be returning from a leave of absence, The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reported.
No reason was given for her leave, which she took “effective immediately” in October, or for her permanent departure. Gayle began her role at the college in 2022.
Rosalind Brewer, interim president and former chair of the college’s Board of Trustees, will remain at the helm.
“I join the trustees in extending my gratitude to Dr. Gayle for her service to this amazing institution,” Brewer said in a video message. “I’m also excited to continue my service as your interim president.”
Brewer stressed that the college is on a positive trajectory.
“While higher education institutions across the country face challenges, I’m proud to say Spelman College remains financially sound,” she said. “My goal is to ensure we continue to prosper and thrive.”
Board of Trustees chair Lovette T. Russell said in a letter to the campus community that she had “deep admiration for Dr. Gayle and appreciation for her service as the 11th president of Spelman College.”
