Citing the need for new leadership that can move the campus forward into the future, Dr. Hugh Rowland says he is resigning as dean of USC-Union.

Rowland, who has served as dean since January 2007, tendered his resignation this week to Dr. Chris Plyler, vice provost for the USC system. In his letter, Rowland states he feels USC-Union is at the point where new leadership is required.

“I believe that USC-Union is at a point that it deserves a new leadership style,” Rowland wrote in his resignation letter. “My wife and I continue to be strongly devoted to our calling to serve the students of this area, but we do not believe that I have the leadership qualities that USC-Union needs to take it to the next level. With this letter, I am tendering my resignation, effective at the end of the current budget year.”

In his letter, Rowland asks his resignation be expedited as qucikly as possible so the progress the campus has made can continue. Rowland points out USC-Union kicked off its master planning process this week with a focus group conducted by The Boudreau Group architectural firm. He writes this past fall the campus shattered its 44-year enrollment record with 500 students and shattered it again this spring with nearly 500 students enrolled.

Other achievements include USC-Union’s most ambitious undertaking, the Union County Advanced Technology Center, developed and operated in partnership with Spartanburg Community College, the purchase of a building on Main Street to provide an additional 10,000 square feet of space for the campus, hiring The Boudreaux Group to develop its master plan and working to resolve property disputes with area businesses.

Rowland pointed out the progress the campus has made in recent years has had an impact on its image in the community.

“We are coming to be seen as a center of leadership and support for a wide variety of community organizations, including the Arts Council, the Union County Economic Development Board, the Union County Healthcare Foundation, the Union County Music Club, the Chamber of Commerce and the Rotary Club,” Rowland’s letter says. “To maintain USC-Union’s momentum, while searching for a fresh style of leadership, I will commit my efforts to making a positive transition.”

“I sincerely believe that USC-Union is at a critical juncture and needs a new leadership style,” the letter continues. “I appreciate your due consideration of my resignation request.”

Rowland, who also teaches US National Government class and a political philosophy seminar, said he and his wife are considering their options once his resignation is effective. He said he has enjoyed his time at USC-Union and that his resignation at this time is in the best interest of the campus.

“I am extremely dedicated to the students,” Rowland said Friday afternoon. “The univeristy needs strong leadership to work with economic development and a variety of other pursuits to provide our citizens with the opportunities that they deserve.”