By: Sydney Umstead, News Editor
On March 20, it was announced that Canisius President Steve K. Stoute would be on temporary leave following a serious illness in his family.
The Buffalo News reported that there is no formal timeline for Stoute’s return; however, prior to his leave, he said the Board of Trustees “‘fully support’ the decision.”
While Stoute is home in Trinidad and Tobago, where much of his family is from and still lives, Dr. Harold Fields, vice president for student affairs, will be serving as the officer-in-charge alongside other members of the student leadership team.
On March 25, the Canisius University page also formally published a statement regarding Stoute’s leave. It stated that, “The purpose of his leave is to allow him to support and care for a member of his immediate family who is battling a serious health issue.”
Further, “The university requests respect for the privacy of President Stoute and his family during this difficult period,” they wrote.
There is also a protocol in place if Stoute is immediately needed. This means that should such events arise, “the university has established procedures to engage him.”
The Griffin, in addition to the Canisius community as a whole, has President Stoute and his family in their thoughts at this time.