Message from Acting President Stephen Percy

Greetings. It is my honor and pleasure to serve as the acting president of Portland State University, a place of opportunity, innovation and excellence. I want to thank Dr. Shoureshi for his service and leadership and wish him well.

I came to PSU more than five years ago because of this university’s reputation for scholarship, vibrant connection to the community, and passionate commitment to the academic success of our students. Early on, both as dean of the College of Urban and Public Affairs and chair of the Strategic Planning Development Team, I had the chance to learn about the university’s unique character and its many achievements—some that are not yet fully recognized.

I continue to be impressed by undergraduate and graduate students, including the 15 students enrolled in the dean’s seminar I am teaching in the Urban and Public Affairs major. I very much appreciate my faculty, staff and administration colleagues who demonstrate, through their dedication and energy, a commitment to PSU’s mission and values. In addition, I am excited by the many initiatives that the university is undertaking that propel us forward in our quest to “Let Knowledge Serve.”

A great deal of business awaits the university in the next several weeks. We are setting tuition and finalizing a budget for next academic year. We are working with the Oregon Legislature to secure sufficient resources to serve our students. We will be graduating one of the largest classes in PSU history. At the same time, we will all be doing the important day-to-day business of the university: education, discovery and engagement. I take the responsibility of serving as your acting president seriously, and I will support all of you to the best of my ability. 

In the coming weeks, the Board of Trustees will move to appoint an interim president. I am confident that with your support and collaboration we will successfully complete this academic year and navigate this initial leadership transition.