Dear Faculty, Staff and Students,  

Earlier today, President Feinstein shared with the campus community his decision to step down from his role effective Aug. 1, 2026.

On behalf of the board, I want to express our deep gratitude for his leadership and service to the university over the past eight years. During his tenure, he has been a tireless advocate for our students and for public higher education across ºÚÁÏÉçÇø. He spearheaded collective lobbying efforts with other institutions of higher education to increase statewide funding and advanced significant initiatives that will strengthen our university for years to come, including the development and implementation of a comprehensive 10-year strategic plan and enrollment management plan, securing our designation as a Hispanic-Serving Institution and launching our College of Osteopathic Medicine.

President Feinstein is committed to continue fully serving in his role through Aug. 1 to support a smooth and thoughtful transition. The boardwill share additional information soon regarding interim leadership and the presidential search process.

We recognize that leadership transitions can raise questions, particularly during a time of change. Please know that the board remains firmly committed to our mission and to ensuring a stable, supportive environment. Our focus remains on your success and on the continued strength of this institution.

Thank you for your commitment to our students and our community.

Sincerely,

Dick Monfort
Chair, Board of Trustees, University of Northern ºÚÁÏÉçÇø