Francis Lawrence, Who Led Rutgers, Dies at 75 His death was announced by Rutgers. A cause was not disclosed. Dr. Lawrence, who stepped down in 2002, oversaw the first formal strategic plan at Rutgers, which is New Jersey's flagship public university; steered its evolution into a more diverse institution; and helped remake the school's technology infrastructure as the Internet became a part of campus life. He also oversaw a building boom at the university and the addition of more than 50 new academic programs. It was, however, a contentious tenure. In 1995, some faculty members considered holding a no-confidence vote against Dr. Lawrence, saying he lacked leadership. But the professors backed off when they realized the vote would most likely fail. Dr. Lawrence's resignation came as professors were circulating surveys on his performance. They gave him good marks for dealing with diversity and lower grades in other areas. Dr. Lawrence was born on Aug. 25, 1937, and grew up in Woonsocket, R.I. He earned his bachelor's degree at St. Louis University. He became a scholar of French literature and came to Rutgers as president in 1990 after three decades at Tulane University, where he earned his doctorate and served as provost and dean of the graduate school. Dr. Lawrence is survived by his wife, Mary Kay; a son, Christopher; two daughters, Naomi Lawrence and Jennifer Lawrence; 13 grandchildren and 3 sisters.