University of Arkansas System President Donald Bobbitt announced Tuesday that he will be retiring after almost 13 years of leading the state’s largest university system.
Kelly Eichler, chair of the UA System board of trustees, was notified that Bobbitt plans to retire effective Jan. 15 or earlier if a successor is selected before that date.
Eichler will be calling a special meeting in the coming days for the board to discuss Bobbitt’s retirement, as well as the plan for a national search for the next system president.
Bobbitt began his tenure as System President at the University of Arkansas on November 1st, 2011, succeeding Barney Alan Sugg.
Bobbitt admitted bittersweet feelings about his retirements, saying in a statement, “One of the great privileges I have been afforded through my time as president was the chance to work with an exceptional group of colleagues who served as the Chancellors and CEOs of our campuses, divisions and units, and with the very talented staff in the UA System administration,” Bobbit said. “Each and every day they carry out the complex responsibilities of their position, keeping first and forefront the mission of this system to serve Arkansas and its citizens. It has equally been an honor to serve the many students across the UA System and help them achieve the dream of improving their lives through higher education.”
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