Shorter College President Ed L. Schrader, who orchestrated the attempt to sever the college's ties with the Georgia Baptist Convention, resigned on Sept. 16 to accept the presidency of Brenau University.

Schrader will begin his new position at the Gainesville college on January 1, four years to the day from when he took the helm of Shorter.

In an email resignation to Shorter Board of Trustees, faculty, and staff, Schrader acknowledged that his ability "to range far and wide with potential constituents, student recruits, and donors is dramatically hampered by the battle scars from our struggle. There are simply many churches, families, and groups into which I will never be welcomed."

He said he would begin to transition all of his projects and development plans "to the appropriate personnel at the college during this fall semester." He then suggested that the Board initiate a search process in the spring while employing an interim president who would not seek the presidency.

Brenau University was founded in 1878 as a privately owned institution of women. Though never directly supported by or affiliated with Baptists, Brenau was originally named the Georgia Baptist Female Seminary.

Though primarily a women's university, it does admit males to some course work.