West Virginia University announced in a press release on Tuesday that Rob Alsop plans to leave the university.
In light of Alsop’s departure, Gee plans to reorganize the strategic initiatives unit, of which Alsop has served as vice president for the past six years.
According to the release, Alsop will temporarily transition to the role of special adviser to the president, effective Nov. 18 through Jan. 31, 2024.
Alsop’s annual salary is $400,000 which will remain constant through the temporary transition to his departure, according to a WVU spokesperson.
During the three-month transition period before his departure, Alsop “will focus on critical activities as directed by the president.”
According to the release, during that time Gee and his leadership team will “review the needs of the university, as well as resources required to best serve the campus community.”
Alsop has often found himself in the crosshairs of opposition to WVU’s Academic Transformation. In September, the university approved controversial cuts that will eliminate 28 majors, scale back others and result in faculty reductions in force.
In the release, Gee thanks Alsop for his work, in particular his handling of the pandemic and the most recent budgetary challenges.
“I am deeply appreciative of the work Rob has done and the commitment he has had to his alma mater over the past six years,” Gee said. “I am particularly grateful for the outstanding role he played in leading the university through the COVID-19 pandemic and the headwinds the university is facing. He has great passion for this university, and I am thankful for his leadership, friendship and service. We wish him all the best in the future.”
Alsop said changes at the university made it a good time for personal changes, as well.
“I have been very fortunate to play an important role at my alma mater for the past several years,” Alsop said. “And I am eager to continue serving to assist in key areas during this transition. As the university turns the page to its next chapter, it is also an appropriate time for me to begin my next chapter. I love WVU and wish nothing but the best for it, the president and his leadership team.”
The university said it will provide more information once the plan is finalized.
