The Arkansas Tech University Board of Trustees voted unanimously during a special called meeting on Saturday, Sept. 9, to terminate the employment of ATU President Dr. Robin E. Bowen without cause.
“The board is grateful for the services Dr. Bowen has provided to Arkansas Tech during her tenure,” said Jim Smith of Fayetteville, chairman of the ATU Board of Trustees. “We do not take this action lightly and appreciate all she has done as president at Arkansas Tech.”
Pursuant to the Sept. 6, 2018, employment agreement between the ATU Board of Trustees and Bowen, the board is required to provide Bowen 60 days advance written notice of termination without cause. That notice was provided by the board to Bowen on Saturday, Sept. 9, following the board meeting.
Smith stated that Dr. Russell Jones, ATU acting interim president, will continue to serve as head of administration, management and operations for Arkansas Tech during the forthcoming 60-day period and will continue in his role as interim president following the end of the 60-day period.
“Dr. Bowen will act in such manner and provide such services to Dr. Jones to provide for the ease and administrative convenience of an effective and seamless transition of the Office of President to Dr. Jones in his capacity as interim president and to support Dr. Jones in these endeavors,” said Smith. “Dr. Jones, in his capacity for being responsible for the management, administration and operations of Arkansas Tech, will be responsible for all events pertaining to Arkansas Tech University during this 60-day period, specifically including the designation of speakers, presenters, hosts, invitees and guests at Tech events.
“The goal is to provide for the ease, convenience and proper administration of Tech during this fall semester,” continued Smith. “We are grateful to Dr. Jones for his continued service as well as the rest of the executive committee, which has done an outstanding job in helping start the fall semester.”
