Mixed reaction after UIW president unanimously voted out by board

Dr. Lou Agnese has been the university's president for 31 years

SAN ANTONIO – There were mixed reactions to Monday's unanimous vote to oust University Incarnate Word president Dr. Lou Agnese. He led the university for more than 30 years.

It was hard news to swallow for close friend and university supporter Lionel Sosa. After the board voted unanimously to let Agnese go, Sosa told KSAT:  "He’s my friend of 31 years. I love him and I’m in mourning for his departure. He is my friend and will always be my friend, but I think he is ill right now," he said.

Agnese was placed on a 90-day medical leave earlier this month after the university said he exhibited sporadic, uncharacteristic behaviors.

Last week KSAT 12 obtained a letter written by students which detailed several comments Agnese allegedly made at a campus luncheon a week ago. Several people called those comments racist and offensive.

"If the things that people are saying are true, then the remarks that have been said are not acceptable in any shape or form. Any type of intolerance shouldn't be encouraged especially in a position of leadership and especially at a university," said UIW junior Veronica Macinroe. 

She was not surprised by the board's decision, given recent events, but other students felt differently. 

"He's been here longer than I've been alive and when you think of UIW and the leadership you think of Dr. Agnese," said UIW grad student Jahnavi Mijagiri.

Mobile users click here to watch the video statement from UIW in its entirety. 

Mijagiri said she got to meet Agnese when she served on student government.

"I would not expect that from Dr. Agnese," she said. "The Dr. Agnese I know is very open." 

She said she had hoped to hear from Dr. Agnese himself about the whole ordeal. He did not give a statement after the board's decision Monday. 

KSAT has no confirmation of what medical issue, if any, he is dealing with.  

Dr. Denise Doyle will continue serving as acting president as the board begins a nationwide search for a new president.


About the Author:

Courtney Friedman anchors KSAT’s weekend evening shows and reports during the week. Her ongoing Loving in Fear series confronts Bexar County’s domestic violence epidemic. She joined KSAT in 2014 and is proud to call the SA and South Texas community home. She came to San Antonio from KYTX CBS 19 in Tyler, where she also anchored & reported.