Ricardo was elected Dean of the College of Education in a State University for a term of five years unless sooner terminated. Many were not pleased with his performance. To appease those critical of him, the President created a new position that of Special Assistant to the President with the rank of Dean, without reduction in salary, and appointed Ricardo to said position in the interest of the service. Contemporaneously, the University President appointed Santos as Acting Dean in place of Ricardo. (2005 BAR)

a) Does the phrase "unless sooner terminated" mean that the position of Ricardo is terminable at will?
b) Was Ricardo removed from his position as Dean of the College of Education or merely transferred to the position of Special Assistant to the President? Explain.