University of Florida President Ben Sasse resigns in light of wife's declining health
Gainesville, University of Florida, campus entrance with students. (Photo by: Jeffrey Greenberg/Universal Images Group via Getty Images)
The University of Florida President Ben Sasse has announced his departure from the school due to his wife's recent health issues.
In a message posted on X, Sasse explained that his wife, Melissa, had been diagnosed with epilepsy in recent months and has been struggling with some memory issues.
Sasse said, "First, I’m a husband and dad. Second, I’ve been blessed to serve as president of the best dang public university in America – Go Gators! – and I’ve loved the challenge of giving this university everything I’ve got. But here’s the bottom line: Those callings are significantly at odds with each other right now. Gator Nation needs a president who can keep charging hard, Melissa deserves a husband who can pull his weight, and my kids need a dad who can be home many more nights."
Sasse became UF's 13th president in November 2022. Before that, he served in the U.S. Senate, representing Nebraska.
Sasse's resignation is effective July 31, 2024, UF said in its own statement.
"The Board of Trustees thanks Dr. Sasse for his service to the University of Florida. Under his leadership, UF has continued to advance on the national and international stage, benefiting our students, faculty, alumni, community and state. He has left a lasting impact on the university and all of those associated with it. We wish Ben all the best as he steps back to focus on his family," said Mori Hosseini, chair of the Board of Trustees, in a prepared statement.
What happens next?
Sasse and UF said he would remain part of the University, and would transition to a "teaching and advisory role."
UF said its Board would "work quickly and thoughtfully" to select an interim president, and would then "lay the foundation for the search for a new President."