The »Æ¹ÏÊÓƵ (RCBC) Board of Trustees announced that, during its meeting on Nov. 3, it voted to suspend College President Dr. Michael Cioce, effective immediately.
The suspension follows the Board’s prior issuance of a Notice of Termination for Cause on Sept. 22. The charges outlined in the notice focus on Dr. Cioce’s unilateral decision to enter into a Tuition Reduction Agreement with Thomas Jefferson University of Philadelphia.
The Board alleges that Dr. Cioce’s actions exceeded his authority, were not authorized by the Board, violated college policy, breached the exclusivity provisions of an existing partnership agreement between Rowan College and Rowan University, and caused damage to the relationship between the two institutions.
On Sept. 30, Dr. Cioce filed a federal lawsuit against the college, the Board of Trustees, and several individuals. The college believes that the lawsuit is without merit and was filed, in part, to disrupt the college’s ability to proceed with the disciplinary process.
On Oct. 23, U.S. District Judge Christine O’Hearn rejected Dr. Cioce’s effort to thwart the college from taking an adverse employment action, thereby permitting the Board to move forward as it did. The college’s review of this matter remains ongoing, and additional information may result in a modification or expansion of the charges previously issued.
Following Dr. Cioce’s suspension, the Board appointed Dr. David Spang, provost, to serve as acting president. Dr. Spang is a valued member of the RCBC leadership team and has previously served as interim president during prior transitions. In his role as provost, Dr. Spang has overseen the college’s academic programs, accreditation efforts, and faculty initiatives, demonstrating a strong commitment to student success and institutional excellence.
The Board has the highest respect for Dr. Spang and great confidence in his ability to lead the institution during this interim period. His knowledge of the institution, deep relationships across the campus community, and steady leadership will help ensure stability and continuity as the college moves forward.
The Board appreciates its faculty, staff, and students for their continued dedication to the college’s mission of providing high-quality, affordable education and workforce opportunities for Burlington County and the surrounding region. The Board of Trustees is focused on ensuring stability and continuity as the college continues its mission, and is confident that under Dr. Spang, the college will continue to move forward and remain focused on serving our students and community.
