William Peace University president to retire
RALEIGH (WTVD) -- William Peace University President Debra Townsley says she will retire as of June 30, 2015.
Townsley notified the Board of Trustees Monday. She's led the university for five years.
"During my tenure, William Peace University has seen tremendous growth. I told the Board it would take five years, which is the right amount of time for my service to the University. As a change agent, I know that you come in to carry out the mission of the Board, then pass the baton to the next leader to continue to move the institution forward," Townsley said in a statement.
Townsley's tenure has been controversial. She oversaw the change from women-only to coed and the school changed its name from Peace College to William Peace University.
Some students have protested over what they described as a declining academic environment at the college and called for Townsley's resignation.
But supporters have celebrated growth, the addition of faculty members, the adding of new majors, and what they call the successful integration of young men into the once all-female student body.
