Gates resigns post as president of Crowder
Crowder College President Steve Gates has announced his resignation, effective May 31.
Gates did not offer a specific reason for his resignation but issued a statement to the press, saying, "The decision to do so has not been an easy one, but one I believe is in the best interest of all parties.
"My family and I moved to Neosho 19 months ago, in August of 2004, and I began serving as Crowder's president soon afterwards.
"During this time I have enjoyed being a part of the Crowder tradition and serving the Crowder community. It's been a privilege to work with so many wonderful people in the college and the community. I am especially proud of what we have been able to accomplish with the support of the board during that time. While the seeds for some of these achievements were planted before I arrived, others were sewn and new opportunities emerged.
"While I may no longer be the Crowder president, I will be a Crowder supporter forever. My family and I will remain in the community. We will find new ways to support the community and education while remaining active with the various organizations we've come to know. I have enjoyed the opportunity to serve Crowder College and wish them the very best with all their future endeavors."
Crowder's board of trustees also issued a statement, praising Gates' dedication.
The board accepted his resignation during a closed meeting held March 29 in Neosho.