Provost Holden Thorp will step down from his position July 15, the University announced Wednesday.

Chancellor Mark Wrighton and other Washington University leaders noted the progress the University has made toward becoming more affordable while acknowledging the immense difficulties of pursuing need-blind admissions at Tuesday night’s annual tuition forum.

Provost Holden Thorp, whose job description typically entails academic planning, budgeting and facilities, is stepping back into the classroom this coming semester to teach a course focusing on elements of higher education.