MOBILE, Ala. (WPMI) University of South Alabama Board of Trustees granted President Gordon Moulton's request for a 90 day paid leave of absence. Board Trustee's also voted to appoint Dr. John Smith as Acting President until President Gordon Moulton returns.
"It's indeed an honor to be asked to do this by President Moulton and the Board of Trustees. So I'm appreciative of their confidence in me and look forward to doing this," said acting President Dr. John Smith.
President Moulton will take three months off work to fully recover from brain surgery. USA doctors successfully removed a brain tumor in October. Schools officials and close friends stated Moulton was eager to get back to work but came back too soon.
"That's what's gotten us here, and he tried. His treatment went rapidly, more rapidly than normal, and he got back in here probably too quick for his own good but trying to do it for the university," said Chairman of the Board of Trustees Jim Yance
For now Dr. John Smith will take over. Smith has served as Vice President for Student Affairs since 2008, and he has been an assistant to President Moulton for two years.
"Important decisions he's consulted on, and so that's why President Moulton recommended him. We feel comfortable with him because we know that the students feel comfortable with him. Faculty is comfortable with him. The top administration is comfortable with him, and so I think he's the choice right," said Yance.
Smith stated, "President Moulton is a true friend and a mentor to me. I've learned a lot from him. He is an outstanding leader, and we truly look forward to his speedy return."
