VSU Interim President Pamela Hammond to Step Down

Virginia State University Interim President Pamela V. Hammond has notified the University’s Board of Visitors of her intent to not renew her contract, set to expire on December 31, 2015 and to withdraw from further consideration as a candidate for the presidency.

In submitting the letter, Dr. Hammond is invoking a 60-day notice clause in her contact. Dr. Hammond began as Interim President on January 1, 2015.

“I wish to extend my sincerest appreciation to the Board for placing its trust in me to provide the leadership for this venerable institution of higher learning,” Hammond wrote. “I will be eternally grateful for the wonderful memories of my 12-month tenure at Virginia State University.”

VSU Rector Harry Black commended Dr. Hammond’s service. “Dr. Hammond brought an energy to the role of Interim President and the Board offers its gratitude to Dr. Hammond for her tireless efforts on behalf of Virginia State University and its students.”

In December 2014, the VSU Board of Visitors formed a Presidential Search Committee, with representation from a cross section of VSU constituencies, including members of the Board and representatives from VSU’s faculty, staff, national alumni association, student body and foundation.

In January 2015, the Board enlisted the firm of Isaacson, Miller to conduct a nationwide search for qualified candidates for the presidency. This firm has worked closely with the Search Committee to vet candidates to become Virginia State University’s 14th President.

Rector Black said the Search Committee will continue reviewing candidates and the Board of Visitors, at its November meeting, will address the issue of selecting a successor to Dr. Hammond to serve as Interim President until such time as a permanent President takes office.