University of the Sciences President Resigns

The president of the University of the Sciences has resigned after just two and a half years on the job. Helen F. Giles-Gee announced her resignation as University president today. Board chairman Marvin Samson will become interim president when Giles-Gee resigns December 31st.

“At this time and after serious reflection, I have decided to leave University of the Sciences,” Giles-Gee said in a statement. “I am honored to have served as president and will hold this University dear in my heart.”

Giles-Gee became USP’s first African-American and first woman president in July 2012. She previously served as president of Keene State College from 2005 to 2012. She earned her bachelors, masters and doctorate at Penn.

“She served USciences well at a difficult period of transition and addressed the objectives identified by the board of trustees during her tenure,” Samson, the future interim president, said in the same release announcing Giles-Gee’s exit. “Giles-Gee has been a transformational leader and made significant contributions to the University in improving operations, maintaining financial stability, and establishing new accredited academic programs.”

The Inquirer reports she’s not being made available for comment.