University chancellor to step down in spring

University System of New Hampshire Chancellor Edward MacKay announced yesterday that he will retire from the post next spring.

MacKay, whose job was on the chopping block in this year's legislative session, has been chancellor since July 2009 and has worked for the University System for more than 36 years.

'From my perspective, the USNH has provided, and continues to provide, an extraordinary value for the citizens of New Hampshire and is integral to sustaining the quality of life we cherish,' MacKay said in a statement to the system's board of trustees. 'There are many crucial tasks to be accomplished during the next eight months, including advocacy for our biennial budget requests and a number of important, long-term collaborative efforts with the Community College System. I am enthusiastic about completing this work and facilitating the continuing evolution and success of the USNH.'

The University System includes the University of New Hampshire, Plymouth State University, Keene State College and Granite State College.

House lawmakers proposed eliminating MacKay's position and most of the jobs in the chancellor's office this year. The proposal died in the state Senate, after University System trustees said the office is currently involved in a budget evaluation.

Richard Galway, chairman of the board of trustees, thanked MacKay in a statement for the advance notice of his retirement, and said, 'For the better part of four decades, Ed MacKay has tirelessly supported, advocated for and enhanced public higher education in New Hampshire.'

(Sarah Palermo can be reached at 369-3322 or spalermo@cmonitor.com or on Twitter @SpalermoNews.)