Ruth Simmons to step down as President of Prairie View A&M University

PRAIRIE VIEW, Texas:  Dr. Ruth J. Simmons, President of Prairie View A&M University, has announced she plans to step down as president of the university.

In her letter of March 11 to the university community, Simmons says the decision to leave her position was a “very difficult and surprisingly emotional decision.”

In Simmons' message posted on the university's website, Simmons said it's time for new leadership as she completes her fifth year as president.

While the community expected that the time will come when Simmons would probably retire from the university, the timing of the announcement is a shock considering the momentum Simmons has at the university.

In comparing her experiences as president of Smith College and Brown University, Simmons says that this time is different for her as she led Prairie View through many unexpected and impactful historical moments that were felt across the community, United States, and world. Taking on these issues were also rewarding for Simmons because “you can see the differences in the students, faculty and staff.”

“I did not imagine that I would feel so grateful to be able to lead PV through this series of challenges and that PV would emerge stronger after such a perilous period, gaining in resources and reputation,” said Simmons. “I am therefore grateful.”

Simmons’ letter outlines the progress the university has made under her leadership and also points out that there is much more work to be done.

“Prairie View A&M is nowhere near what it could ultimately achieve as an institution of the first class. Our students deserve more, and we must provide it for them. As we undergo our strategic planning, it is evident to me that a new leader must assume responsibility for advancing the University to a new level of excellence in student outcomes, faculty achievement and research output.” --   Ruth J. Simmons, president of Prairie View A&M University.

Simmons says has told Chancellor John Sharp of The Texas A&M University System of her plans. Simmons will continue to serve in the president's position until a successor is chosen.

In a statement, Chancellor John Sharp of the Texas A&M University System says bringing Ruth Simmons out of retirement to lead Prairie View A&M University is one of the things he is proudest of.

“In five years, she has transformed the university and set it on a path to success and I am thankful for her time as President. I know the faculty and the students, in particular, will miss her day-to-day inspirational leadership. She and I are discussing how best she can continue her service to the Texas A&M University System. I have no intention of allowing Ruth to leave the service of Prairie View and we will work hard to keep her here at a higher capacity. That said, I am so very thankful for her service and friendship.” -- John Sharp, Chancellor of  The Texas A&M University System

In the coming months more details will be announced about the Chancellor’s plans for identifying a president for Prairie View A&M University.

Simmons was named interim President of Prairie View A&M University on June 19, 2017 and took over the leadership on July 2017 after the departure of former president George Wright.  Simmons was subsequently named President on December 4, 2017, becoming the first female president in the school’s history.