In a statement the U released Saturday, Prescott Muir will retain his position as the chairman of the School of Architecture.
“I am pleased that we can come to an understanding,” said Muir, professor of architecture and chairman of the School of Architecture since 2009, in a press release. “Now is the time to move forward in a constructive way that builds on a foundation of strong and nationally recognized academic programs.”
Brenda Scheer, dean of the School of Architecture, has taken responsibility for the debacle last week that lead to Muir’s resignation.
“I regret that I acted hastily, without full information and without full consideration of the views of faculty, students and alumni,” she said in a statement the U released. “I am sure there would have been a far different outcome had I been more inclusive. For this, I apologize to Prescott Muir and to all those who care about the college.”
Michael Hardman, interim senior vice president for Academic Affairs, said the U will do a review of the “governance, curriculum and communication issues” in the architecture department, including scheduled performance reviews of Scheer. They expect the review to be completed within 45 days.
“I am deeply relieved, but it’s not over,” said Kathleen Hill, a graduate student in the School of Architecture and member of the Salt Lake City Planning Commission. “I am hopeful the university will examine the problem this issue has exposed and make the decision necessary to build the best possible future for the college of architecture students and faculty.”