Oregon State University President Ed Ray announced on Friday that he in intends to step down from his position on June 30, 2020 to conclude a 17-year tenure, according to an All-Student email. Ray stated that he will continue to serve as president until the new president assumes office.

In the email he stated that his health is still very good and intends to start a new leadership position to continue assisting the university. Ray will be 76 years old by the time the new president assumes office, and starting July 1, 2020 he will transition into a sabbatical and then become a professor of economics.

According to the email, Rani Borkar, the chair of OSU’s Board of Trustees, will provide additional details in the next few weeks regarding the process and timeline for choosing the next president of OSU. 

Ray stated that his decision to step down is excellent timing as the university has concluded a comprehensive accreditation review and it has also finished a 10-year business forecast and capital planning.

“Please know that my affection for each of you, my passion and commitment to the mission, vision and values of this university have never been stronger. And, I remain certain that the best is yet to come for Oregon State University and those we serve,” Ray said.