CANTON -- St. Lawrence University President William L. Fox has announced he will retire on June 30, 2021, after 12 years in the position.

He shared the news with the campus community on Tuesday, Aug. 4.

While Fox’s departure will come near the end of an extended academic year due to the COVID-19 pandemic, he has committed to presiding alongside St. Lawrence’s next president during the Commencement for the Class of 2020, which was postponed until August 1, 2021. He will also attend next year’s reunion, scheduled for July 15-18, 2021, according to a news release from SLU.

In the near future, the Board of Trustees will appoint a committee to identify St. Lawrence’s 19th president and a national search will commence this fall. More information will be shared as it becomes available, SLU said.

“Bill Fox’s inspiring leadership for more than a decade deserves the highest praise,” Board of Trustees Chair Michael Ranger said in the release. “While we have known for some time that Bill intended to retire in 2021, it doesn’t make this moment any easier. Bill’s legacy is one that will be felt by every future generation of Laurentians.”

“Fox will be best known for his forward-thinking approach to ensuring St. Lawrence provides a liberal arts education that opens doors and possibilities, while simultaneously being the president that put current and future St. Lawrence community members at the center of his work to ensure programs, buildings and spaces would exceed their needs,” the release said.