We are grateful for the graceful exit of Virginia State University President Keith T. Miller, who announced last week that he will step down Dec. 31.

The VSU board of visitors has given him a career-saving way out, along with a proper golden parachute in recognition for the value he has brought to the institution during his four and a half years at the helm.

The vacancy left by Dr. Miller’s departure now mustn’t hold up the turnaround of the university. And we challenge the board during this pivotal time during the university’s history to find the right person to lead VSU securely into the future.

Reversing VSU’s financial course will be a daunting task for whomever takes the job. We hope the new person brings in a team of more expert prognosticators who can provide a clear and accurate picture of student enrollment and budget forecasts for the 132-year-old institution.

If VSU is to survive and thrive — and we believe it will — several administrators under Dr. Miller who provided bad information and worse advice should do the noble thing and step down now.

Hundreds of VSU students were right in their call to clean house, and this is where the leadership by the board is paramount.

Selection of a new president with proven all-around experience is critical. VSU needs a genuine standout who understands, not simply the university’s academic side, but the crucial realm of fundraising and who is adept at developing relationships with alumni, foundations and corporate backers to engage donors who can help ensure the university’s future.

We wish Dr. Miller the best during his sabbatical, and we hope the board seriously hunkers down now to live up to its urgent and significant task of finding a new president.