Donald Bobbitt, the long-standing president of the University of Arkansas system, disclosed on Tuesday his decision to retire after close to 13 years at the helm of the state’s largest university system. Bobbitt informed the university’s Board of Trustees of his intention to retire by Jan. 15, or sooner if a successor is appointed prior to that date. Kelly Eichler, chair of the board, announced plans to convene a meeting soon to devise a strategy for a national search to find Bobbitt’s replacement.
Expressing gratitude for his time leading the UA system, Bobbitt lauded his colleagues and staff who diligently fulfill their duties while remaining committed to the system’s mission of serving Arkansas and its residents. He also reflected on the privilege of aiding numerous students across the UA System in realizing their aspirations of enhancing their lives through higher education.
Assuming the role of UA system president on Nov. 1, 2011, Bobbitt succeeded B. Alan Sugg after the latter’s 21-year tenure. His academic journey commenced as an assistant professor of chemistry at the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville in 1985.
Throughout his tenure, Bobbitt presided over the system’s growth, welcoming the inclusion of UA-Pulaski Technical College and UA-Rich Mountain Community College in 2016, with the impending addition of East Arkansas Community College slated for later this year. Eichler praised Bobbitt’s exemplary leadership, acknowledging his steady guidance benefiting the system and fostering the emergence of distinguished leaders across campuses.
Despite facing opposition over his handling of a potential affiliation with the University of Phoenix, one of the largest for-profit college entities in the nation, Bobbitt’s contract was extended last year. Nonetheless, the board ultimately voted against the affiliation.
