After a 58-year career in higher education and public service, California Community Colleges Chancellor Jack Scott announced on March 6 that he will be retiring from his position on Sept. 1.

“I have greatly enjoyed my work since becoming chancellor on January 1, 2009,” said Scott in a statement sent statewide to all community college systems. “It is true that it has been a tough time for community colleges because of the financial difficulties of the state of California.”

“But I have been received warmly in Sacramento and on college campuses by trustees, faculty, staff, administrators and students. I have proudly represented our colleges before the Legislature, the governor and many other audiences,” he said.

Scott oversaw the improvements made to many technical education programs and strengthened services for veterans pursuing higher education. Scott was an advocate for the increase in investments and supported transfer process from community colleges to California State Universities. In addition, he supported the addition of the Associate Degree for the Transfer program, according to the chancellor’s office press release.

“Chancellor Jack Scott has been committed to the effectiveness of California community colleges and the success of the students they serve,” said Cosumnes River College President Deborah Travis in an email interview. “In these challenging times Dr. Scott’s leadership has been strong and constant, providing vision and advocacy.”

“His knowledge, passion and perspective on the importance of public higher education in California will be missed,” she said.