Harvard President Claudine Gay announced her resignation on Tuesday, stating, "It is with a heavy heart but a deep love for Harvard that I write to share that I will be stepping down as president." In a letter to the Harvard community, she explained that, after consulting with members of the Corporation, she believes it is in the best interests of the institution for her to resign, allowing the community to focus on the challenges at hand rather than any individual.
The spokesperson did not respond to comment requests immediately.
Gays' presidency at the esteemed university only lasted a little over six months, partly due to her responses at a congressional hearing last month and an ongoing plagiarism scandal.
During the House hearing, Gay faced criticism for not providing clear answers about the measures to address bullying and harassment of Jewish students.
The Harvard Corporation revealed in a letter on Tuesday that Alan M. Garber, the current provost and chief academic officer at Harvard, will serve as interim president until a new leader is appointed.
The Corporation announced that the search for a new president will commence at an appropriate time, but did not provide a specific timetable.
In her letter, Gay expressed her intention to resume a faculty position, and to focus on the scholarly and teaching aspects that are essential to their work.
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