*This story was updated on May 15, 2024, to reflect new information received.

Gregor Thuswaldner, Whitworth University’s current provost and executive vice president, announced on Wednesday, May 1, that he is stepping down from his current position.  

In an email sent to faculty, lecturers and adjuncts, Thuswaldner wrote that he was “thankful for [his] upcoming sabbatical,” where he will “explore and expand current scholarly projects.” He did not give a reason for his decision to step down, a timeline for his resignation or plans for his successor. When The Whitworthian reached out to Thuswaldner, he responded with the email that had been sent to faculty.  

President Scott McQuilkin said on May 15 that he plans for the interim appointment to last two academic years, although no interim appointment has been made as of yet.

Thuswaldner has held the role of provost and executive vice president since February 2020. His education includes a bachelor’s degree in German and English studies from the University of Salzburg, a master’s in German and English studies from the University of Vienna and a Ph.D. in German literature from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.  

Before Whitworth, Thuswaldner served as distinguished faculty member, chair of the Department of Languages and Linguistics and director of the Center for Faith and Inquiry, all at Gordon College. He was a co-founder and senior fellow of the Salzburg Institute of Religion, Culture and the Arts. He held multiple other positions, as well.  

Thuswaldner’s email stated that he was “incredibly proud” of the work he did in collaboration with others at Whitworth, citing “working through the challenges of the pandemic,” creating the School of Health Sciences, launching new graduate and undergraduate programs and more.  

Thuswaldner’s resignation comes during a time of controversy as the university lays off faculty members in response to an unexpected budget deficit.  

This is a developing story and will be updated as further details emerge.