Southern Virginia University President Bonnie Cordon is stepping down.
A three-year term was the plan all along, Cordon said in a letter Wednesday to students, faculty and staff at the independent school for members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Her tenure will end when the academic year concludes with graduation in May, she wrote.
“I believe deeply in you, the rising generation, and in what this institution represents,” she said in the letter. “Being part of your lives and watching you discover your divine capacity as children of God and disciples of Jesus Christ has been a sacred experience in my life.”
SVU has launched a national search for a replacement and Cordon said she is committed to a smooth transition.
“The best days of Southern Virginia University are still ahead,” she wrote. “I am excited to watch what unfolds as you continue to build this community of faith, purpose, and love for one another.”
Cordon served as the church’s Young Women General President from 2018 to 2023. In that role, she doubled as a member of the board of trustees for BYU, BYU-Idaho, BYU-Hawaii and Ensign College.
Prior to that, she served two years in the Primary general presidency.
After 10 straight years in the church and university roles, she is looking forward to devoting more time to her family.
“Derek and I are grateful beyond measure for the trust you have placed in us and for the privilege of serving alongside you,” she wrote.
A former manager in the software industry, Cordon is 61.
SVU is a private university in Buena Vista, Virginia, with about 1,000 students. It is aligned with the principles, values and teachings of the Church of Jesus Christ but the church does not sponsor it.
“The Lord is doing a great work here,” Cordon wrote. “He has directed this university’s path. I have complete confidence that he will continue to do so.”
She said her heart will remain with the school.
“Thank you for letting me be part of your journey,” she wrote. “I will treasure this experience and will always be grateful for you.”