SUNY Upstate Medical U president resigns amid state probe

Syracuse, N.Y.-based SUNY Upstate Medical University President Danielle Laraque-Arena, MD, revealed plans to step down from her position at the end of the fall semester this year, according to Localsyr.com.

Here are four things to know:

1. The university announced Dr. Laraque-Arena will step down Dec. 22 on study leave, but will continue to be an employee of SUNY. She is expected to return June 7, 2019, as a faculty member in the pediatrics department at the SUNY Upstate Medical University College of Medicine.

"While on study leave, Dr. Laraque-Arena will perform research and analysis on the remediation of healthcare disparities, children in the midst of war, and gender in medicine and the health professions, and will provide recommendations to SUNY system concerning addressing the challenge of health disparities in the Upstate NY region. She will also continue to be available to SUNY to assist in the transition. She will receive her current salary during that time," the hospital said in a statement obtained by Localsyr.com.

2. Upon her return next June, Dr. Laraque-Arena will receive a salary consistent with her 2015 faculty appointment, the university said.

3. Dr. Laraque-Arena issued a letter to colleagues, obtained by Localsyr.com, regarding her departure.

"Leading SUNY Upstate Medical University has been my distinct honor, with the goal of achieving our mission as One University dedicated to the highest standard in academia and patient care, focusing on improving health disparities, placing the highest value on excellence and inclusion," she wrote. "I have endeavored to lead this university with integrity, professionalism and innovation."

4. Dr. Laraque-Arena's departure comes as the state comptroller's office plans to initiate a probe into the university's $660,500 payment to its former CEO for an alleged off-campus assignment that involved no work. Earlier this week, the former president of the institution, David Smith, PhD, pleaded guilty to abusing his leadership role by illegally padding his annual salary.

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