Board Fires President of Alabama State

The board of Alabama State University on Friday fired President Gwendolyn Boyd, who was hired in December 2013 and suspended in November, AL.com reported. The board vote was eight to six. Board members have been vague about their rationale, saying only that Boyd has lost their confidence. Many students and alumni have defended her, saying that she was making needed improvements in the historically black institution -- and needed more time to show progress.