GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — Calvin University has named the school's Vice President of Advancement Gregory Elzinga as interim president after University President Wiebe Boer resigned over allegations of inappropriate conduct. Boer held the position of president for less than two years, as he was appointed in March of 2022.
The school said they recently received a report that alleged that Boer engaged in unwelcome and inappropriate communication and attention toward a member of the campus community. The school clarified the person was not a student. While the school said the alleged communication was neither sexually explicit nor physical in nature, it was concerning.
"The Board of Trustees of Calvin University is committed to fostering a workplace and educational environment that emphasizes the worth of every member of our community," the school said. "This includes taking seriously all reports of inappropriate conduct."
Calvin University said they immediately brought in outside experts to ensure they responded to the report in compliance with policy and legal requirements, including Title IX. They said Boer denied some of the allegations but admitted to sending communications that were "inappropriate and inconsistent with the high standard of conduct and character expected of the President of Calvin University."
Boer offered to resign and the school accepted.
In the meantime, Elzinga will serve as interim president. The school said he has "a deep well of skills and experience in and outside of Calvin, as well as an equally deep knowledge and dedication to the institution."
"In his role as Vice President of Advancement, Mr. Elzinga is already fully engaged in the day-to-day operations of the University and is well situated to provide effective continuity of leadership while the Board conducts a thorough search for the University’s next permanent President," the school added.
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