SAN ANTONIO – A little over a month after he was removed as university president, Lou Agnese on Friday was named president emeritus of the University of the Incarnate Word.
The UIW Board of Trustees, which voted to oust Agnese on Aug. 29, voted unanimously to honor the former president. Agnese was removed after he allegedly made racial remarks during a campus luncheon.
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"We have had very positive and affirming conversations with Dr. Agnese in the last few weeks, and both the Board and Dr. Agnese are highly encouraged about the future of this important relationship," UIW Board of Trustees Chairman Charles Lutz said in a statement.
The statement also revealed that Agnese was suffering from severe exhaustion and will be out of the country until Nov. 5.
"Upon his return, we will discuss ways that he can continue to support the University's success in his role as president emeritus," Lutz said.
Despite his health improving, Agnese informed the board that he will retire effective Dec. 31.
"Dr. Agnese has meant so much to this University in his more than 30-year tenure as president, and it has been our hope that we would all be able to honor his achievements and legacy at UIW," Lutz said.
UIW plans to honor Agnese with a gala retirement dinner in December.
Denise Doyle will continue serving as acting president until a new president is selected. A search committee will soon be organized to begin a national search for a new president, Lutz said.