"I Need To Be Truthful About My Life," Says Totino-Grace President

Totino-Grace High School in Fridley announced today that William Hudson has voluntarily resigned as school president because the administrator said he is in a "committed same-sex relationship."

Hudson's resignation was effective June 28. In a statement, the Catholic high school said Hudson informed Totino-Grace Corporate board co-presidents, Mark Motzel and Mary Wilcox of his decision. 

"I love the Totino-Grace community, however I need to be truthful about my life," Hudson said in the school's press statement. "I am in a committed same-sex relationship, and I felt the best course of action was to inform the school. I value my time at Totino-Grace as one of the most enriching experiences of my career."

Motzel  lauded Hudson for ably serving the Totino-Grace school community for the past nine years, noting he (Hudson) "had an excellent record of accomplishment and provided strong academic and financial stewardship at Totino-Grace during his tenure. 

"That said, leading a Catholic school while living in a committed same-sex relationship is not consistent with the teachings of the Catholic Church," Motzel said. "We thank him (Hudson)for his service and wish him well as he explores new professional opportunities."

Hudson joined Totino-Grace as Vice President for Mission in 2004 and became President in 2011. Prior to Totino-Grace, he served as a teacher, campus minister, coach and Dean of Students.

Julie Michels Named Interim President 

In the wake of Hudson's departure, Totino-Grace said  Principal Julie Michels has been named Interim President and will work closely with Brother Milton Barker who will become executive vice president. Michels and Barker will serve in these roles for the 2013-2014 school year.

Here's what else Totino-Grace said about Michels and Barker:

"Michels has served the Totino-Grace community for 22 years and has been Principal of the school since 2001. She has spent a total of 27 years in Catholic education, having worked as an English teacher, admissions counselor and Assistant to the President. 

Barker has many years of experience in Catholic education, including president of Totino-Grace for 23 of his 35 years in the community. He also served as director of development and principal at the school.

Totino-Grace said its Board will immediately begin searching for a new president."

Want to read about Hudson's appointment as Totino-Grace president two years ago? Click on to this Fridley Patch story.