Cornell University President Hunter Rawlings announced today (July 31) that he has accepted a letter of resignation from the dean of the College of Arts and Sciences, Philip E. Lewis, effective June 30, 2003. Lewis will be on sabbatic leave in the year thereafter. Provost Biddy Martin will initiate a search process for his successor during the upcoming fall semester.

Lewis sent the following message on July 30 to the faculty and staff of the College of Arts and Sciences:

"The president and the provost have asked me to resign from the dean's position effective June 30, 2003. After much reflection, I have agreed to do so since it appears that there are irreconcilable differences in our viewpoints. After taking a leave during the academic year 2003-04, I plan to return to the faculty in the Department of Romance Studies.

"It has been a privilege to serve as dean of the College of Arts and Sciences. During the remainder of my term, I shall continue to try to represent our interests thoughtfully while working with members of our faculty and staff to facilitate the search for a new dean and an orderly transition. I thank you for your support during the past seven years and hope that the college can count on you for faithful service this year and in the future."