William Williams will remain provost of Slippery Rock University rather than becoming interim president, according to a news release issued today by the State System of Higher Education.

This will permit him to continue to devote a significant portion of his time as a member of the negotiating team for the system with the statewide faculty union.

“Dr. Williams brings invaluable knowledge and experience to his role as a lead negotiator for the system at the bargaining table,” said Guido Pichini, chairman of the state system board.

“We had hoped to be farther along in the process at this time, but unfortunately have not been able to get agreement on changes we need to deal with the fiscal realities facing us.”

Williams had been announced as the interim president effective in February after President Robert Smith retires.