Recent media reports concerning Life University have caused me 
great
concern. I am regretful that you have learned about upcoming 
changes in the
direction of our university and programs from newspaper, television 
and
radio reports before I have had an opportunity to make final 
decisions and
provide official information in the proper forum.

Through negligent sources, the media has obtained sensitive
information regarding decisions at the university. As a result of 
these
leaks, reporters have been able to piecemeal reports that are 
damaging and
counterproductive to the work of the university and my office. If you 
have
knowledge of or are involved in a sensitive project, please use the 
utmost
care in protecting information. There are a lot of people affected by 
the
decisions we make and I want to place their interests before 
headlines.

The board of trustees and I have made the decision to eliminate
the university's athletic programs. However today's media reports 
are
premature and incomplete as a phase out plan is yet to be developed. 
Once
an official exit plan has been developed, I will inform you personally 
the
steps and timing of our exit from competitive sports.

In addition, it was reported that the north Marietta clinic
would be closing. This is an inaccurate report; I am concerned about 
the
duplication of services provided by our Roswell Street and north 
Marietta
clinics, however it is too early for me to make a recommendation to 
shut the
doors on any academic related facility or program. Once a decision 
has been
made regarding any program, you will hear the official information 
from my
office. Any other report, from the media or by word-of-mouth, is
unofficial.

I am amazed by the support I have received during the past two
weeks. I have found a lot of opportunities and promises in our 
academic
programs, faculty and students. But, I'm not going to sugarcoat or 
make
light of several difficult decisions I am currently addressing with 
the
board of trustees as we determine the direction we must go to 
remain a vital
university. As a result of these decisions there will be additional
reductions in our facilities and staff. However I caution you to rely 
only
on official information from the university and not media reports.


Dr. Michael J. Schmidt
Interim President