Hundreds of students, some tearing up, gathered on the Keene State College campus Tuesday to say goodbye to President Melinda Treadwell, who leaves Friday to become the president of SUNY Geneseo, New York’s public liberal arts institution and national public honors college.

Plymouth State University President Donald Birx will fill Treadwell's role through at least June – while keeping his. A University System of New Hampshire spokesperson declined to say whether his appointment was a cost-cutting measure or prompted by state budget cuts. University officials have not said if, or when, there will be a search for a full-time replacement.

Students said they hope Birx will carry on Treadwell's approach and support for their liberal arts programs.

Senior Patrick Garcia, a film major and head

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