UPDATE [2:40 p.m.]

Robert Morris University has released a statement addressed to the campus community in regards to President Gregory Dell’Omo withdrawing his name from the consideration of becoming La Salle University’s new president.

“I wish LaSalle University the very best as their search continues,” said Dell’Omo who has been President at RMU since 2005. “It was gratifying to know that the progress that’s been made here at RMU caught the attention of this institution and led them to invite me into their recruitment process. At this point, I’m glad to get back to work with my great team at RMU to take us to the next level.”

During Dell’Omo’s time as university President, there have been many accomplishments and advancements of the university that have been recognized across the country and globally.

“Greg Dell’Omo is an outstanding university President, and, without question, his leadership and vision have been instrumental in propelling Robert Morris to become a university of choice,” said Gary Claus, Chair of the RMU Board of Trustees.

“RMU’s success story has been noticed by outsiders,” said Claus. “Indeed it was, in part, because of RMU’s rapid rise and strategic growth during Dr. Dell’Omo’s tenure that LaSalle’s Presidential Search Committee contacted Dr. Dell’Omo and convinced him to enter the field of candidates for their presidency. Many colleges and universities have struggled these last several years, but Robert Morris has thrived, thanks to Dr. Dell’Omo’s vision and the hard work and tremendous support of our highly accomplished faculty and staff. RMU is well positioned for the future.”

During Dell’Omo’s presidency, RMU has seen an increase in students living on campus from 1,140 in 2005 to 2, 070 in fall 2013. Nearly 60 percent of students live on campus now, compared to less than 40 percent during 2005.

There have been many building developments to the campus throughout his time as well. Robert Morris has seen the building of two new apartment-style residence homes, the conversion of a nearby hotel into a residence hall, and the addition of new school buildings.

UPDATE [1:15 p.m.]

La Salle University trustees are expected to come to a conclusion by the end of today after being in a closed-door meeting earlier in the day.

According to Trib Total Media: Ralph Martin, a Robert Morris trustee and CEO of Trib Total Media, said members of the university’s board were advised that Dell’Omo was a candidate for the La Salle post, but have not been informed of any official announcement.

Dell’Omo’s contract at Robert Morris University was set to last until May 31, 2017. Dell’Omo has been vital in the recent transformation and growth the university has seen in the past few years.

“… the university has enjoyed a rising academic reputation, dramatically increased the number of students living on campus, and launched a student engagement program that has impacted all aspects of campus life. Dell’Omo credits a strong sense of institutional identity among faculty and staff, and their embrace of RMU’s core values.” said Jonathan Potts, Senior Director of Public Relations back in Nov. 2012 when Dell’Omo’s contract was originally renewed.

ORIGINAL:

The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette is reporting that Gregory Dell’omo, Robert Morris University President, is expected to become the new president of La Salle University in Philadelphia.

Dell’Omo has been with Robert Morris since 2005 and is expected to replace Brother Michael McGiniss who is stepping down after 15 years. He would be the first president who is not a Christian Brother.

Stay tuned to RMU Sentry Media and rmusentrymedia.com for the latest information.