BREAKING: Board of Trustees announces President Yellen's resignation; Dennis Murray to serve as Interim

The Marist Board of Trustees announced this morning that President David Yellen has resigned. The Board has appointed former President Emeritus Dennis Murray as Interim President until they “can determine a process and timeline for the selection of a new President,” according to an email statement sent to all Marist students this morning.

According to an article posted by Marist today, Yellen commented, “I am very proud of the many things that were accomplished during my time at Marist.”

Since Yellen became the fourth President of Marist College in July 2016, his administration carried out a five-year strategic plan, the opening of a Marist location in midtown Manhattan, and launched Marist’s first doctoral program: the Doctor of Physical Therapy Program. In September 2018, Yellen announced the opening of the Marist Health Quest School of Medicine.

“I am sorry that I will not be here to see these things come to fruition, as I am sure they will, but I am extremely grateful for this experience and for the wonderful support I received from many at Marist,” Yellen continued. He plans to take a sabbatical then pursue other leadership positions in higher education.

“Marist is very fortunate to have Dr. Murray in this role because of his deep and meaningful understanding of the workings of the College and ongoing relationships with various constituencies,” the statement said, signed by the Chair of the Marist College Board of Trustees, Ross Mauri '80.

“Dr. Murray will serve in this capacity until the Board can determine a process and timeline for the selection of a new President,” the statement continued. “We will provide you with updates during this transition period, but I would emphasize that Marist is a strong institution that will continue to advance in a positive direction.”

President Emeritus Dennis Murray. Credit: Marist Office of Marketing & Communication

Yesterday morning a local publication, Hudson Valley News, released a Facebook post reading, “Marist Fires David Yellen, Dennis Murray Returns as Interim President....Details in tomorrow's edition.” The Hudson Valley News did not speak to the Marist College Office of Marketing and Communication regarding the post, said Marist’s Director of Media Relations, Julia Fishman.

“My understanding is that this was a personal decision for President Yellen,” Fishman said. “The official news came from the college today. It runs contrary to what we saw yesterday.”

“I know the entire community joins me in wishing David and his wife Leslie all the best as they embark upon this new chapter in their lives,” said Mauri in the email statement. “Let me close by reiterating the College’s commitment to providing students with a first-class education. We wish you an enjoyable summer and look forward to welcoming you back to campus in the fall.”