After serving as the College of Central Florida's President for 15 years, Dr. Charles Dassance has announced his plans to retire.
He became President of the college in 1996. During his leadership, the College has increased it's student body by more than 59 percent, with more than 8,500 students as of Spring, 2011.
The College also started offering bachelor's degrees in Applied Science in Business and Organizational Management with four specializations including Agribusiness Management, Health Care Management, Public Safety Administration and Management Information Systems. A Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education will begin next Fall.
Dr. Dassance says the decision to retire was not easy to make, but believes the College is in good shape and is ready for a transition.
"This has been the best 15 years of my professional career undoubtedly," Dassance said. "I'm really proud of what this institution does and incredibly proud of the students that are here and what they are able to accomplish. It's a good feeling," he said.
The College has already begun a local and national search for it's next President. They hope to fill the position by January.