"While it is always difficult to say goodbye to a valued member of our team, I know you will join me in extending gratitude to Mr. Decatur for all he has done for Ohio University and offering congratulations to him as he moves on to Rhode Island in January 2010," McDavis said.

He added that he plans to name interim leadership within the next few days to take up the reins after Decatur's departure in January.

"I assure you that our university community's work to meet the budget challenges that Ohio University faces will proceed without hesitation or delay," he said. "Our Finance and Administration team has depth, talent, expertise and a commitment to make this transition seamless."

In the next few weeks, McDavis will invite members of the university community to serve on a search committee for leadership in Finance and Administration after Decatur's departure.

William R. Decatur, M.A., J.D., was named vice president for Finance and Administration, CFO, and treasurer of Ohio University in March 2006. He oversees the areas of Auxiliary Services, Budget Planning and Analysis, Facilities Management, Finance, Human Resources, the Ohio University Police Department and Safety and Risk Management.

Prior to his appointment at Ohio University, Decatur held several executive leadership positions at the University of Toledo, including executive vice president for Finance, Technology and Operations, interim president, and vice president for Finance and Business. He previously served at Georgia State University, Shawnee State University and the Ohio Office of Budget and Management.

Decatur earned his B.A. in political science and sociology at Miami University, and his M.A. in public administration and J.D. at the Ohio State University. He was admitted to the Ohio Bar in May 1983.