John Hitt, the man who led the University of Central Florida for 25 years, says he made the right decision to sign up in 1992.
Now, he says it's time to make another decision ... to stand down.
"I make this decision in good health, and of my choosing," he said. "The time is right for this decision because I've never felt better about UCF."
Hitt first made his announcement Tuesday in a heartfelt statement on the university's web page, and also discussed his decision during an at times emotion-filled afternoon news conference.
Hitt says his retirement will take effect next summer, but he's promising that he and his wife will stay involved with the university.
Hitt says both he and his wife plan to stay active with planning and fund raising for the university they consider home.