President Steven Currall announced last week he will step down Aug. 2 after two years on the job. Trustees chairman Will Weatherford on Monday supported Law to step in as interim leader.
Weatherford highlighted Law’s experience as a USF graduate and trustee, including serving as the first female chair of the board.
Law also served on search committees that helped select the past two USF presidents.
“Rhea’s deep ties within our community and her stellar leadership abilities will help us continue our momentum while we find the next great leader for our university,” Weatherford said in a statement.
The university announced last week that Provost and Executive Vice President Ralph Wilcox would assume the role of acting president until the Board of Trustees can meet to vote on an interim president. Weatherford said Law “will not apply for the permanent job” but will “work closely with the board to support a productive search process” and facilitate a smooth transition.
Trustees will consider Weatherford’s recommendation at a special meeting Aug. 2. If approved, the selection would need confirmation by the state university system’s Board of Governors on Aug. 31.
Weatherford wrote that the trustees will “soon provide additional details on the next steps in the search process” for a permanent president.
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This article appears in Jul 22-28, 2021.