CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va. (CBSDC/AP) — Academic leaders at the University of Virginia in Charlottesville are calling for the Board of Visitors to reconsider their dismissal of President Teresa Sullivan.

The 33 faculty department heads and program directors of the College and Graduate School of Arts and Sciences sent a letter and joined the Faculty Senate’s request for more information regarding Sullivan’s ouster.

They’re asking that the board reopen discussion with Sullivan and the faculty. They also expressed concern that the decision would harm how current and prospective faculty, students and donors would perceive the university.

Rector Helen Dragas announced Sullivan would step down Aug. 15. Sullivan cited “philosophical differences.”

Faculty Senate leaders issued a statement Monday criticizing the board for failing to fully explain its decision. They seek to meet with board members to discuss the issue.

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