'I Want To Leave On A High Note'

Dr. George Ebbs, president of Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, announced this weekend he will be stepping down after seven years as the university’s top official.

Ebbs (right) came to the university in 1998 after a successful career as CEO of an aerospace consulting firm based in Park City, Utah. His term saw enrollments and research activity increase at Embry-Riddle's primary campuses in Daytona Beach, FL and Prescott, AZ, and at more than 130 Extended Campus teaching centers in the United States, Europe, Canada and the Middle East.

Ebbs notified the Embry-Riddle Board of Trustees of his decision during a meeting of the Board to discuss the results of a six-month study about the state of the university and the best ways to move forward.

“Having been part of that process, and now reflecting on those changes and new directions, it is clear to me that it is time for a new president to step forward and work with the Board to implement its agenda,” Ebbs said. 

University Provost Dr. John Johnson will take over as chief executive officer in the interim, according to an Embry-Riddle release, while over the next year the Board conducts a national search for a new president.

“Many aspects of my vision, my hopes and my dreams for this institution have been realized,” Ebbs said. “We are academically strong, financially sound, and recognized as the leader in aviation and aerospace education worldwide."

“I want to leave on a high note, and this surely is it," he added.

Ebbs also stated he was looking forward to a chance for "renewal," spend time with his family, and consider new challenges.

FMI: www.erau.edu