UNM president: Decision to step down was 'pragmatic'

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP) — University of New Mexico President Bob Frank says he agreed to leave office early because of the toll a lawsuit would take on the university. The Albuquerque Journal reports (http://bit.ly/2hpglyx ) that a statement issued by Frank's lawyer late Wednesday says his agreement to step down Dec. 31 should not be construed as a concession to the Board of Regents, but rather "the most pragmatic move in the long run." The settlement will allow Frank, who has been president since June 2012, to take a paid sabbatical until his contract expires May 31. He will then begin a faculty appointment at a reduced salary. UNM on Tuesday announced the agreement between Frank and the regents. The regents named Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs Chaouki Abdallah as acting president.