DU Chancellor Chopp Announces Decision to Step Down
Provost Haefner Named Interim Chancellor
In an executive session of the Board of Trustees held earlier today, University of Denver Chancellor Rebecca Chopp announced her decision to step down as Chancellor, citing serious health conditions. Shortly after the Board meeting, she shared her intentions in a letter written to the University community. Chopp plans to continue serving DU as an advisor for significant projects initiated during her tenure. The Board also honored her service to DU by designating her Chancellor Emerita when she steps down.Provost and Executive Vice Chancellor Jeremy Haefner was unanimously selected by the Board to serve as Interim Chancellor, effective July 15, 2019.
“As some of you know, I have struggled with health issues this year,” Chopp wrote. “Unfortunately, the doctors I have been working with have diagnosed me with a complex neurological disorder that I need to attend to sooner rather than later. After many tests and consultations, I have decided I must step down as Chancellor on July 14.” She asked for privacy for she and her husband, Fred, and their whole family so that they could come to terms with this unexpected turn of events. Chopp has been at DU for five years.
Chopp has a long, impressive career leading colleges and universities. Prior to coming to DU, she served as President at both Swarthmore College (2009-2014) and Colgate University (2002-2009). She also served as Provost and Executive Vice President at Emory University (1998-2001) and Dean of Faculty and Academic Affairs at the Candler School of Theology at Yale University (1993-97). She has also served as a professor of religion for many years.
Chopp received her PhD in Religious Studies from the University of Chicago (1983), an M.Div. with highest honors from St. Paul School of Theology (1977) and a B.A. (Magna Cum Laude) from Kansas Wesleyan University (1974).
Chopp is the recipient of numerous awards, including the 2016 Brave Leader Award from the Colorado Business Roundtable; the Top 25 Most Powerful Women, Colorado Women’s Chamber of Commerce, and Alumna of the Year from the University of Chicago.