The University of South Alabama Board of Trustees has granted President Gordon Moulton a 90-day temporary leave of absence effective Feb. 1. President Moulton requested the leave to allow for recovery related to his surgery. His physicians report that his surgery was successful and there is no evidence of recurrent cancer. He is recovering well.

The board has appointed Dr. John Smith as Acting President for the duration of President Moulton's leave. Dr. Smith came to USA as Vice President for Student Affairs in 2008 and also has served as Special Assistant to the President since 2010.

"I appreciate the confidence of President Moulton and the Board of Trustees and am honored to be asked to serve in this role," Smith said. "We have a very strong administrative team that works well together, so I am confident we can keep the University moving forward until President Moulton returns."