University of Northern B.C. president abruptly resigns

The president of the University of Northern B.C. in Prince George has resigned following two years of service.

Don Cozzetto stepped down from the position Friday, effective immediately.

Donald Rix, chair of the UNBC board of governors, said in a news release that "there were many reasons behind Dr. Cozzetto's personal decision to step down.

"Unfortunately, he felt he couldn't advance his vision at UNBC," Rix said.

Cozzetto will return to the United States, where he spent 18 years before joining UNBC.

"The board wishes Dr. Cozzetto well and conveys its heartfelt thanks to him for his service to UNBC," said Rix. "He has demonstrated tremendous leadership in marshalling the university's strengths for the good of the institution and region."

For the remainder of the month of June, acting provost James Randall will assume the additional responsibility of acting president until July 1, when he will be replaced by new provost, Mark Dale, who will be moving to UNBC from the University of Alberta.

The board of governors is scheduled to meet later this month. In addition to selecting a new chair and approving the 2008-09 operating budget, the board will consider the appointment of an acting president for the period following July 1 and the process for selecting UNBC's next president.