UNLV Interim President Kenny Guinn on Monday accepted the resignation of Dr. John Unrue, who has served as provost and senior vice president for the past 10 years. The resignation was effective immediately. Unrue plans to resume teaching and scholarship in the English department.

Explaining that the provost position is crucial to the academic operation of the university and cannot remain vacant even briefly, Guinn named Dr. Ron Smith, dean of the Graduate College, as interim provost. Guinn said no action will be taken on the appointment of a permanent provost until a new UNLV president is selected.

Dr. Cheryl Bowles, associate dean of the Graduate College, will serve as interim dean of the college.