CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va. (AP) — The University of Virginia has reinstated its popular president.

 

The move comes less than three weeks after Teresa Sullivan's ouster. Her secret dismissal infuriated students and faculty, had the governor threatening to fire the entire governing board, and sparked a debate about the most effective way to operate public universities in an era of tight finances.

 

As the 15 members of the school's governing board voted, scores of students, faculty and others gathered outside to demonstrate in support of Sullivan.

 

The board shocked campus June 10 when it announced the university's first woman leader would step down Aug. 15 after nearly two years in the position.

 

Gov. Bob McDonnell gave the board an ultimatum last week: either resolve the controversy or he would replace each of them.