ATLANTA — Brenau University announced Friday the passing of its 10th and first woman president in its 145-year history.
Dr. Anne A. Skleder died after a long battle with leukemia. The school said it would remember her as a visionary leader and a dedicated advocate for Brenau students throughout her career.
A funeral mass will be scheduled at Holy Child Church in Bridgeville, Pennsylvania, for Skleder's family. The university is planning to hold a celebration of life to honor her.
During her time as president, Skleder kept the welfare of Brenau students in the forefront, affectionately referring to them as "our reason for being." Notably, she established a scholarship for first-generation students early in her presidency.
Under her guidance, Brenau University transformed its Department of Psychology into the Lynn J. Darby School of Psychology and Adolescent Counseling at the Gainesville Renaissance within Brenau's Downtown Campus. She also founded the Miller Institute for Global Education, expanding opportunities for Brenau students to study abroad.
“We are all deeply saddened by the loss of Skleder, and our thoughts and prayers are with her family at this time,” Mike Smith, chair of Brenau’s Board of Trustees, said. “Her leadership will be missed, and I personally have lost a dear friend. But I know that she would be the first to tell us to continue the good work of Brenau - as she did often during her courageous battle against leukemia.”
Dr. David Barnett, whom Skleder had selected to oversee Brenau during her treatment, will continue to serve as interim president, a decision endorsed by the Board of Trustees.
The sudden passing of Skleder has left the university community in shock and mourning.
Support is available for faculty, staff, or students struggling during this difficult time. University Counselor Gay Baldwin can be reached at universitycounselor@brenau.edu or 770-534-6121. The Brenau Center for Counseling & Psychological Services offers assistance in Gainesville and Norcross. Additionally, Brenau employees may seek support through the Employee Assistance Program at 800-450-1327.
A community gathering will be held today at 4:30 p.m. in Thurmond McRae for those who wish to come together for a few moments of reflection. The university added that a candlelight gathering is planned for Monday, Oct. 23, at 6:30 p.m. on the front lawn of the campus.
