Bob Jones University President Steve Pettit resigns amid leaked letter. Here's what we know.

Bob Jones University President Steve Pettit announced his resignation Thursday. He will leave office at the end of the academic year in May.

"It has been one of the greatest privileges of my life to serve as the president of Bob Jones University," Pettit said in a press release. "My memories of the wonderful people, the incredible student body, and the perpetual blessings of God will linger with me throughout the rest of my life."

Bob Jones University has not released a statement regarding the process of selecting a new President.

The Greenville News was able to confirm the authenticity of a leaked March 21 letter Pettit sent to the Board of Trustees, explaining his issues with Board Chairman John Lewis. In the letter, Pettit said Lewis allegedly kept information away from Pettit and obstructed a Title IX investigation, which led to a breakdown in communications between the two.

On the day Pettit announced his resignation, a petition was started on Change.Org by the students and alumni asking for Lewis' resignation. Over 3,000 supporters − exceeding the number of students currently enrolled in the evangelical school, have signed the petition so far.

Pettit's departure comes only a couple months after he was re-elected by the board Nov. 17, 2022. He was the president for nine years, after first being elected in 2014. He was the first President to not be related to Bob Jones Sr., the university’s founder.

Check back for updates.

Devyani Chhetri covers the South Carolina State House and is a watchdog SC government reporter. You can reach her at dchhetri@gannett.com or @ChhetriDevyani.

This article originally appeared on Greenville News: Bob Jones University President Steve Pettit resigns amid leaked letter