After 34 years as president of Charleston Southern University, Jairy C. Hunter Jr. will assume a new role at the school on June 1, 2018.

An article posted March 28 at the university’s website said Hunter will “transition” to the position of president emeritus and will provide “consulting and assistance” as the school moves forward. Hunter will continue to teach in the university’s graduate school of business, according to the story.

Jerry Williams, chairman of the CSU board of trustees, expressed appreciation for Hunter’s “visionary leadership” and for transforming Charleston Southern into “one of the best Christian universities in the country.”

Hunter said he was gratified that “thousands of students have received an excellent education in a Christian environment” during his tenure.

Williams said the board will initiate a search process for CSU’s next president starting in February 2018. Inquiries may be directed to Presidentsearch@csuniv.edu.

The article stated that Michael Bryant, executive vice president, will assist Hunter during the upcoming transition.

Following is the full text of the article:

Charleston Southern University Board of Trustees Announce that Dr. Jairy C. Hunter Jr. will Transition from President to President Emeritus on June 1, 2018

The Board of Trustees announced [March 28, 2017] that Dr. Jairy C. Hunter Jr. will transition from the President of Charleston Southern University to President Emeritus on May 31, 2018, after 34 years of service. Over the past two years, the Board of Trustees and President Hunter have collaborated and developed a Succession Plan to ensure that the University continues to thrive and operate smoothly. Beginning June 1, 2018, as President Emeritus, Dr. Hunter will provide consulting and assistance in key areas such as strategic planning, external relations, resource development, enrollment and financial affairs. Additionally, he will continue to teach in the graduate school School of Business.

Chairman of the Board, Dr. Jerry Williams, expressed appreciation to Dr. Hunter and First Lady, Sissy, for an exemplary job in leading the University for over three decades. “Dr. Hunter’s visionary leadership, tireless dedication and unwavering commitment to Christian higher education literally has transformed CSU into one of the best Christian Universities in the country,” declared Dr. Williams.

“I am gratified that during my tenure thousands of students have received an excellent education in a Christian environment,” stated Dr. Hunter.

The Board will begin a search process for the next president in February 2018. Dr. Michael Bryant, Executive Vice President, will assist President Hunter during this transition period. Inquiries may be forwarded to Presidentsearch@csuniv.edu.