The Michigan State University Board of Trustees voted at a meeting today to formally accept the resignation of President Lou Anna K. Simon, effective immediately. The board also voted to appoint Bill Beekman, vice president and secretary of the board, as acting president. Beekman is now responsible for all duties associated with the Office of the President.
“I’m honored to serve, for a short period of time, as the acting president of MSU,” Beekman said. “I look forward to helping this great university during this time of transition.”
Beekman has served as vice president and secretary of the board since 2008. His duties included administrative responsibilities for board meetings, university ordinances, policies and courtesies. Previously, he served as executive director of the MSU Alumni Association.
The board will work to identify an interim president as expeditiously as possible and immediately begin the national search process for a permanent president.