The Rowan College at Burlington County (RCBC) Board of Trustees announced that it voted to suspend College President Michael Cioce, effective immediately, following a meeting on Nov. 3.
The suspension is the latest action stemming from a prior Notice of Termination for Cause issued to Cioce on Sept. 22.
The charges against Cioce center on his alleged unilateral decision to enter into a Tuition Reduction Agreement with Thomas Jefferson University of Philadelphia.
The Board alleges that Cioce’s actions significantly exceeded his authority and were not approved by the Trustees. Specifically, the Board claims the agreement:
- Violated college policy.
- Breached the exclusivity provisions of an existing partnership agreement between RCBC and Rowan University.
- Damaged the relationship between the two institutions.
Cioce filed a federal lawsuit against the college, the Board of Trustees, and several individuals on Sept. 30. The college believes the lawsuit is without merit and contends it was filed to disrupt the ongoing disciplinary process.
The Board’s ability to move forward with the suspension was affirmed on Oct. 23, when U.S. District Judge Christine O’Hearn rejected Cioce’s effort to legally thwart the college from taking adverse employment action. RCBC’s review of the matter is ongoing, and the charges may be modified or expanded as additional information is reviewed.
Following the suspension, the Board appointed David Spang, the current provost, to serve as acting president. Spang is a long-standing member of the RCBC leadership team and has prior experience as interim president.
The Board expressed “highest respect” for Spang, citing his knowledge of the institution and “steady leadership” as key factors that will “ensure stability and continuity as the college moves forward.”
The Trustees concluded by affirming their focus on the college’s mission of providing high-quality, affordable education, thanking the faculty, staff, and students for their continued dedication.
