U Mississippi Chancellor Will Step Down

Jeffrey S. Vitter (right) will step down as chancellor of the University of Mississippi on Jan. 3, the state higher education board announced Friday. No reason was given, and Vitter has not commented, leading to much speculation about why he is leaving after only three years in office, and with relatively little time between the announcement and his departure. He succeeded Dan Jones, who was forced out by the state board. The departure of Jones prompted much outcry and student protests, but responses to Vitter's departure have been muted, although many have noted the impact of another transition.