New Mexico State University President Barbara Couture is officially out of her role as the university's leader, though there are still few details explaining why.

During a public meeting Monday, the Board of Regents announced there is a mutual separation between Couture and the regents in which all parties agreed to the terms of her departure.

The regents said the circumstances surrounding Couture's leave are a personel issue and said they wish to respect her privacy and will not give any other details.

"There are clear reasons on both sides of this agreement and we will honor our legal obligation not to discuss them," NMSU Board of Regents Chair Mike Cheney said.

The terms of agreement between Couture and the Board of Regents said Couture will receive $452,09.72 by Jan. 15.

The terms also said Couture can remain in the president's residence until Dec. 31.

The regents did acknowledge problems NMSU faces, including Dona Ana Community College's loss of accreditation for the nursing program, a declining athletics program and declining research funds, but would not say whether it is related to Couture's departure.

NMSU said Couture is taking a senior advisory position with the Association of Public Land Grant Universities.

The regents said they hope to appoint an interim president by Oct. 15.

They said it could take several months to appoint a permanent replacement for Couture.

"We're looking for leadership in terms of the ability to connect with our donors, connect with our alumnae, connect with our students," Cheney said.