The class of 2021 at Delaware Valley University, Doylestown, will likely be a little wistful as it hears “Pomp and Circumstance” during commencement exercises. But it’s likely that University President Maria Gallo might become introspective as well, writes Chris Ullery for the Bucks County Courier Times. 

Gallo is exiting the campus to “…pursue other opportunities and fulfill different dreams.” She has served as the university’s 13th president since taking the post in 2016. 

“I have been incredibly fortunate over these past five years to work with committed and talented professionals in every aspect of our institution,” she said. 

During Gallo’s tenure, the school developed a five-year comprehensive plan expanding “experiential learning,” which incorporated classroom education with hands-on practice across 30 majors. The program received the 2019 Outstanding Experiential Education Program Award by the National Society of Experiential Education. 

“On behalf of the Board of Trustees, we want to express our gratitude to President Gallo for her many efforts on behalf of our DelVal students, faculty, staff and alumni. We are extremely grateful for her dedicated service and success over the past five years, particularly in the face of challenging circumstances during the pandemic,” wrote Majid Alsayegh, Chairman of the Board of Trustees. 

Dr. Ben Rusiloski, vice president for academic affairs and dean of the faculty, will serve as interim president. 

More on this change of leadership is available at the Bucks County Courier Times.