UA System President Bobbitt announces plans for retirement

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. (KNWA/KFTA) — University of Arkansas System President Dr. Donald R. Bobbitt announced plans to retire on July 16 after nearly 13 years leading the school system, according to a press release.

The release says Bobbitt plans to retire as president effective January 15 or earlier if a successor is selected before that date. Board of Trustees of the University of Arkansas Chair Kelly Eichler said she will call a special meeting of the board in the coming days to discuss Bobbitt’s retirement.

Bobbit said he was bittersweet about the decision after fulfilling the goal he set for himself when he became president in November 2011 to leave the system in a better standing.

Susan and I are grateful for the opportunity the Board of Trustees has provided us over the past 13 years to serve a university system that has played such a large and important role in our lives. 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. 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 been an equal honor to serve the many students across the UA System and help them achieve the dream of improving their lives through higher education.

University of Arkansas System President Dr. Donald R. Bobbitt

Bobbit’s start as president was November 1, 2011, succeeding Dr. B. Alan Sugg, who led the system for 21 years before his retirement.