Boer Resigns as Calvin University President

The Board of Trustees of Calvin University is committed to fostering a workplace and educational environment that emphasizes the worth of every member of its community. This includes taking seriously all reports of inappropriate conduct.

Calvin University recently received a report alleging that President Wiebe Boer engaged in unwelcome and inappropriate communication and attention toward a nonstudent member of the campus community. The report did not include allegations of sexually explicit communication or physical contact, but the alleged conduct is concerning and inappropriate.

Upon receiving the report, the board immediately engaged outside experts to ensure that Calvin University responded to the report in compliance with its policy and legal requirements, including Title IX. After being notified of the report, Boer denied some of the allegations but did admit to sending communications that were inappropriate and inconsistent with the high standard of conduct and character expected of the president of Calvin University. Boer subsequently offered his resignation, which the board accepted.

In keeping with established emergency succession plans, the board has named vice president of advancement Gregory Elzinga to serve as interim president. He has a deep well of skills and experience in and outside of Calvin, as well as an equally deep knowledge and dedication to the institution. In his role as vice president of advancement, Elzinga is already fully engaged in the day-to-day operations of the university and is well situated to provide effective continuity of leadership while the board conducts a thorough search for the university’s next permanent president.

As the university community enters this season of transition, it is united in its shared mission to equip students to think deeply, act justly, and live wholeheartedly as Christ’s agents of renewal in the world.