The president of Western Illinois University is resigning at the end of June after eight years in the post.
Jack Thomas has told an audience of about 200 people that Western Illinois "would best be served by new leadership" at a "pivotal time" for the school.
Thomas has been under fire from alumni and others. The Quad-City Times reports that enrollment has dropped 35% in the last decade, although administrators say it's due to many factors, including population trends and cuts in state support.
Greg Aguilar, chairman of the board of trustees, thanked Thomas for his service. He and other trustees stood and applauded, joined by many in the audience.
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