Three top officials of Andrews University, an institution of the Seventh-day Adventist world church, resigned March 6. The university’s board of trustees accepted, with regret, the resignation of university president Dr. Niels-Erik Andreasen, who has held the post since 1994.

Patricia Mutch, vice president for academic administration since 1998, and Ed Wines, vice president of financial administration since 1985, also submitted their resignations, which were also accepted with regret by trustees. These resignations take effect June 30; Dr. Andreasen’s resignation is effective immediately.

During the transitional leadership period, board chairman, Gerry D. Karst, a general vice president of the Seventh-day Adventist world church, has asked Dr. Andreasen to continue providing leadership for the academic and corporate affairs of the university.

At the trustees meeting, board members examined the recent strategic direction of the university and its related plans for the future. The board felt the university needed the opportunity that new leadership would offer to implement a new strategic direction in harmony with the mission and vision of the university.

In accepting their resignations, the board commended these individuals for guiding the university during a significant and challenging time in the university’s history.

“As the university prepares to move forward, a search committee is being appointed and will have representation from the various constituencies that make up and represent Andrews University,” said Karst. “Additionally, interim leadership will be appointed as soon as possible to provide ongoing leadership to the university during this time of transition.”

From its founding in 1874, Andrews University has emphasized scholarship, quality research and a strong focus on practical Christianity. Its campus is also home to the Seventh-day Adventist Theological Seminary, a premiere training center for church pastors and leaders.