University of Florida president Ben Sasse has announced his resignation after nearly two years in the position, citing the need to focus on taking care of his family. His wife, Melissa, was recently diagnosed with epilepsy, adding to her previous health issues of an aneurysm and strokes in 2007. Sasse expressed the need to step back and rebuild more stable household systems while continuing to teach at the university. The couple has two daughters in college and a younger child who is turning 13.
Sasse, a former US senator from Nebraska and a Republican, left the senate last year to become the 13th president of the University of Florida. Known for his criticism of former President Donald Trump, Sasse was one of the few Republicans to vote in favor of convicting Trump during his impeachment trial after the 2021 Capitol riot. Despite this, Sasse had voted with Trump 85% of the time and helped confirm three of his Supreme Court nominees. The chair of the university’s board of trustees, Mori Hosseini, thanked Sasse for his leadership and acknowledged his lasting impact on the university.
In his statement announcing his resignation, Sasse expressed gratitude to the university community for their support of his family. He thanked the professors, students, and behind-the-scenes workers, such as maintenance crews and cafeteria workers, for making the university feel like a community to his family. While stepping back to focus on his family, Sasse emphasized that they are not leaving and expressed his love for the university community.
The announcement of Sasse’s resignation comes at a time when his family is facing challenges due to his wife’s health issues. Melissa’s recent diagnosis of epilepsy has created new obstacles for the family, who have been dealing with her seizures for the past few years. Despite these challenges, Sasse described his wife as a warrior who has remained strong throughout their journey with her health issues. With their youngest child about to turn 13, Sasse emphasized the need to prioritize the needs of his family during this time.
As Sasse prepares to leave his position as president of the University of Florida, he expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve the university and the connections he has made with the community. His decision to step back and focus on his family reflects his dedication to caring for his loved ones during a challenging time. The University of Florida community, including faculty, staff, and students, has shown support for Sasse and his family as they navigate this new chapter in their lives. Despite his resignation, Sasse’s impact on the university and its members is likely to endure in the years to come.
