RICHLAND, Wash. – The Washington State University Board of Regents Friday voted to grant President Elson S. Floyd’s request for family medical leave effective immediately.
“These have been incredibly challenging times for me, and it is with great regret I ask to take a leave of absence to address this personal battle with cancer,” said President Floyd. “While I do so, I ask you to appoint Dr. Dan Bernardo to assume day-to-day duties of the presidency.”
Board Chair Ryan Durkan said, “Elson Floyd’s accomplishments during this past year have been phenomenal. He has the full, unequivocal support of the Board of Regents, and we wish him the very best during his leave.”
Floyd thanked the board and others for their support.
“Your support has been unwavering during this entire process, and for that I am very grateful,” he said. “I cannot tell you how much the messages of support from students, colleagues and friends around the state have meant.
“I have said it many times: I have the greatest job in the world,” he continued. “There is no place on earth like WSU, and I cannot wait to return to the office and all the great work we are doing once my health allows. In the meantime, please keep me in your thoughts and prayers.”
The regents also unanimously voted to designate Bernardo, in his capacity as WSU provost and executive vice president, to assume the day-to-day duties of president during President Floyd’s leave. “The board has full confidence in Dr. Bernardo’s ability to lead the institution during President Floyd’s leave,” board members said.
Contact:
Kathy Barnard, WSU University Communications, 509-335-8055, kbarnard@wsu.edu
