UTSA President Ricardo Romo formally resigned today, two weeks after he had been placed on administrative leave for unspecified misconduct, News Radio 1200 WOAI reports.
In his resignation statement, Romo made it clear that the misconduct was sexual in nature.
"I have been made aware that the manner in which I embraced women made them uncomfortable and was inappropriate," Romo said. "I understand and respect Chancellor McRaven's concerns about my behavior, and I deeply apologize for any conduct that offended anyone."
Romo leaves behind a towering legacy after 17 years as President of UTSA. He leaves the regional college he joined as President in 1999 with an international reputation, and as the third largest college in the University of Texas system.
Under Romo's leadership UTSA branched out into several new areas of study, opened the downtown campus, acquired the Institute of Texan Cultures, and started a Division 1 football team which last year went to its first ever bowl game.
Romo says he is changing his plans to transition to director of the Texas History Center at the ITC, and will instead work with the World Heritage San Antonio Missions, and work on the city's upcoming Tricentennial celebration.
Romo had planned to retire in August, but he says he will step down immediately to avoid becoming a distraction to the University. A search committee is already looking for a successor.
UT System Executive Vice Chancellor Steve Leslie said the University System is 'profoundly grateful for Romo's service and for the privilege of working with him.'
Current interim President Dr. Pedro Reyes will remain in that post until a permanent President is named.
"My love for UTSA is profound and there are no better students anywhere in America," Romo said. "I wish all Roadrunners the very best in their journeys, as I look for new opportunities to serve my beloved San Antonio in the future."
PHOTO: UTSA