Spelman College President on Unexplained Leave of Absence for Personal Reasons

Spelman College President Dr. Helen D. Gale is taking a personal leave “effective immediately,” according to a college announcement Friday.

The announcement did not mention the reason for the leave.

“We can assure you that Spelman will continue to operate smoothly, moving forward in the spirit of our core values ​​of care, commitment, integrity, reliability and trust,” the announcement said.

Gail will take over the leadership of the historically black women’s college in 2022 following the retirement of former president Mary Schmidt Campbell. Gail was the first physician to hold this position.

Rosalind (Rose) Brewer, a Spelman alumna and former chair of the college’s Board of Trustees, now serves as interim president.

“Throughout this transition, I am focused on guiding Spelman forward by maintaining leadership, maintaining stability and ensuring we continue to meet the needs of our students,” Brewer said in a message to the board, according to the release. Atlanta Journal-Constitution. “We will build on our strengths, embrace change and chart a better path for Spelman’s future.”