March 7 , 2005

As you are aware, President Elizabeth Hoffman announced her resignation today as President of the University of Colorado. The quality of Betsy Hoffman’s character is clear; today she put the interest of the University before that of her own.

Betsy Hoffman has served the University of Colorado ably during her nearly five-year tenure, and her vision, strong will and steady hand will be missed. All of the CU family owes President Hoffman a deep debt of gratitude.

However, it has become clear to many in the CU family that our university- one of the most distinguished in the nation -- has suffered greatly from a series of controversies that seem to be growing, not abating.

In my discussions with President Hoffman in recent days it was apparent to both of us that her support had been waning for some time. On Monday, President Hoffman realized the future of CU is far more important than any single individual.

Today the University of Colorado finds itself at one of the most crucial junctures in our history. CU is one of the premiere public research universities in the country, and it is the job of Regents to ensure that our leadership is strong, our well-being assured and our future bright and unlimited.

If we could all go back to events that began early last year, I am sure we would make different decisions. But today I greatly admire President Hoffman’s difficult decision, one in which she placed CU well above her personal accomplishments and long-term aspirations. All of the CU family wishes Betsy and her husband Brian the best in the future.

President Hoffman will continue to serve until June 30, 2005, or until a successor has been named and a search committee formed.”