American University President Neil Kerwin says he will step down as president next year.
Kerwin says he will step down when his current contract with the school ends on May 30, 2017, according to a letter addressed the school's students and staff.
"My years in this role have been enormously rewarding, but now the time is right for the university, and for me, to begin the process of transition," Kerwin said.
Kerwin has served as the university's president for 12 years. He says he will take a sabbatical leave when he leaves offices, but will eventually return to the university's faculty.
Plans to find Kerwin's successor will be shared next week.
