St. Edward’s University President Montse Fuentes announced through an institutional email last night that she will “move into a sabbatical” starting July 1. Fuentes was selected as president in 2020 and has served in the position since 2021. She said that serving as president has been “one of the greatest honors” of her life. 

Board of Trustees Chair Linus Akanoh addressed the transition in a statement sent to the community shortly after, stating that “the Board has engaged in AGB Search, a nationally respected executive search firm, to assist in the appointment of an Interim President.”

According to Akanoh, the intention is to have a one-month overlap between Fuentes and the interim president, who can serve for “up to — but no more than — two years.” The Board states that they are committed to “transparent communication” and will “launch a dedicated website to provide information and updates regarding the search for our next president.” 

The statement doesn’t specify if there will be community input in the decision, but the board stated that their main focus is “the vitality and future strength of St. Edward’s University” and “the students, faculty, staff, alumni and partners who bring our mission to life.”

In her statement, Fuentes highlighted the achievements of the university in the last five years — including academic rankings, the creation of the School of Health Sciences and the deepening of the Holy Cross mission.

Her time on the hilltop was also marked by a vote of no confidence passed by the faculty senate and by tenured track professors, which came after a series of student-led protests following the removal of the Pride Flag at Meadows Coffeehouse in February 2024. 

This is a developing story. More updates will be provided as more information becomes available.