Dickinson State University (DSU) in North Dakota has announced the resignation of its president, Dr. Thomas M. DiLorenzo, less than a year after he took office. The surprise move comes amidst a ongoing crisis in the university’s nursing program, which has seen a significant number of faculty members leave the institution.
Dr. DiLorenzo’s resignation was announced in a statement released by the university on Friday, citing the “challenges” faced by the institution. Sources close to the matter have revealed that the president’s decision was partly influenced by the mass exodus of nursing faculty, which has left the program struggling to maintain its accreditation.
The crisis in the nursing program has been brewing for months, with several faculty members resigning or retiring amid concerns over the university’s leadership and management. The situation has been exacerbated by the ongoing pandemic, which has placed significant pressure on the healthcare system and the nursing profession.
The departure of nursing faculty has resulted in a significant shortage of staff, making it difficult for the university to maintain its academic programs and clinical partnerships. The accreditation agency for the university’s nursing program, the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), has placed the program on probation, citing concerns over the faculty-to-student ratio and the program’s ability to maintain its standards.
Dr. DiLorenzo’s departure marks the second time in as many years that a DSU president has resigned under controversy. The university’s Board of Regents has begun the process of searching for a new president, who will be tasked with addressing the ongoing challenges facing the institution. The university has promised to maintain its focus on academic excellence, community engagement, and student success, while also addressing the issues plaguing the nursing program.
