SAN ANTONIO – Ricardo Romo has stepped down as president and retired from the University of Texas at San Antonio, effective immediately, according to a statement from the University of Texas System.
Romo had been the UTSA president since 1999, but was placed on administrative leave on Feb. 14.
An email from University of Texas System Chancellor William McRaven said Romo was placed on leave "pending a review of allegations related to his conduct.”
Romo responded to the email three days later, and said in a statement that the investigation centered "on a complaint brought by an employee against the university and me personally.”
Romo said at the time that he "wholeheartedly agreed" with being placed on leave.
Romo then issued a statement Friday morning announcing his decision to step down effective immediately:
Romo had announced in September 2016 that he planned to retire in August 2017 after almost two decades with the university.
Below is a statement from Chancellor McRaven on Romo’s decision to retire:
“I am grateful to President Ricardo Romo for the many accomplishments The University of Texas at San Antonio has achieved under his leadership. During his 18 years as president, he has put the University on a critical path toward Tier One status and changed the culture of education in San Antonio. I know that Ricardo and Harriett look forward to continuing their special relationship with the San Antonio community. I wish him all the best.”
The University of Texas System email read:
The search process for a new president is proceeding as planned, and we look forward to appointing a president in the fall, prior to the start of the next academic year. In the meantime, Dr. Pedro Reyes will serve as president ad interim.
Romo’s attorney, Ricardo G. Cedillo, later sent KSAT 12 this statement that Romo wrote:
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