CLU president leaves his post

California Lutheran University's (CLU) Board of Regents earlier this week announced the resignation of president Dr. John Sladek effective July 23.

Sladek, a neuroscience researcher, will return to the University of Colorado to renew his work to eradicate the debilitating effects of Down syndrome and Parkinson's disease.

Sladek became CLU's sixth president in 2006 after leaving his position as a vice chancellor for the University of Colorado. During his brief tenure, Sladek was instrumental in reaching out to alumni and private donors to increase giving. He welcomed CLU's largest ever incoming freshman class and oversaw a new budget model for salaries.

"For the past six years, CLU has experienced unprecedented growth with our endowment, our student body and our reputation. Dr. Sladek played a leadership role of substantial impact in that growth," said Bill Kane, chairman of the board of regents.

"I am honored at the opportunities afforded to me by CLU, and I am proud that I was able to have an impact on the university's long-term goals," Sladek said.

CLU has announced that the Rev. Dr. Howard Wennes will replace Sladek as interim president.