State leaders on Monday were quick to respond to the resignation of University of Missouri President Tim Wolfe. Wolfe says he hopes the school community uses his resignation as a way to “move forward together.” At a special meeting of the system’s governing board he said he takes “full responsibility for the frustration” students had expressed regarding racial issues and that it “is clear” and “real.”

U.S. Senator Claire McCaskill today released the following statement:
“This was the right decision to help the University turn the page, and for its leaders to recommit to ending racism on campus. Tim Wolfe loves the University of Missouri, and his action today was a reflection of that. I’m confident that my alma mater will work to create a stronger community of acceptance and equality.”

Gov. Jay Nixon today issued this statement:
“Tim Wolfe’s resignation was a necessary step toward healing and reconciliation on the University of Missouri campus, and I appreciate his decision to do so,” Gov. Nixon said. “There is more work to do, and now the University of Missouri must move forward – united by a commitment to excellence, and respect and tolerance for all. The University of Missouri is an outstanding institution that will continue to play a vital role in our efforts to provide a world-class education to every Missouri student.”

A University of Missouri graduate student says he will end his hunger strike now that Wolfe has resigned.  Jonathan Butler, who started his hunger strike Nov. 2, told CNN that he welcomes President Tim Wolfe’s resignation announcement Monday but that the university still has a long way to go to make minority students feel welcome.

(Staff and wire reports)