Text of NDSU President Joseph Chapman's resignation letter

Here is the text of North Dakota State University President Joseph Chapman's letter of resignation to the North Dakota State Board of Higher Education, dated today:

Chancellor William Goetz

State Board of Higher Education

10th Floor, State Capitol

600 East Boulevard Avenue, Dept. 215

Bismarck, ND 58505-0230

Dear Chancellor Goetz,

I am writing to tender my resignation as President of North Dakota State University effective January 2, 2010.

Serving as president of North Dakota State University for the past 11 years has been the greatest privilege of my academic career. Together with students, faculty and staff, we have taken this institution to new levels, and I take great pride in all we have accomplished together. Gale and I have made friends and community ties here we will cherish for the rest of our lives.

Controversies in recent days have created distractions that have made it impossible for me to provide the leadership this institution deserves. Students have always been paramount, and I fear these distractions have impaired my ability to serve their interests.

I strongly urge you and the State Board of Higher Education to commission a comprehensive and independent audit of the president's residence project to protect the integrity of the institution.

I have full confidence NDSU will continue to thrive and contribute to the prosperity of North Dakota well into the future.

Sincerely,

Joseph A. Chapman

President