PEORIA, Ill. (25 News) – Frustrated over proposed program and staffing reductions, Bradley University’s Faculty Senate on Thursday overwhelmingly adopted a resolution expressing “no confidence” in President Stephen Standifird and Provost Walter Zakahi, who is also senior vice president for Academic Affairs.
In a statement, Standifird said he’s disappointed by the vote, understands the discontent, but offered no indication whether he would resign from the job he’s held since May of 2020.
A source tells 25 News a super-majority of the senate approved the resolution.
The action comes amid heated debate about the administration’s plans to make $13 million in cuts and comes two days after students and some faculty members staged a campus protest.
A final decision on that is expected by Dec. 6.
President Standifird released the following statement early Thursday evening:
“I recognize the discontent among some members of the faculty, and I am not dismissive of the sentiments expressed in the vote. While the results are disappointing, I will continue to work toward a successful and sustainable future for the university. I believe our collective efforts as a university community and our shared commitment to Bradley and our students will endure.”
Provost Zakahi will not be issuing a statement Thursday night, a university spokesperson said.
