UF President Ben Sasse steps down to care for his sick wife.
Ben Sasse, president of the University of Florida, stated on Thursday that he will stand down to care for his ailing wife, who was recently diagnosed with epilepsy and memory impairments, as well as to spend more time with family and their 13-year-old son.
“I have two amazing callings in life right now: first, I am a husband and father. Second, I’ve been fortunate to serve as president of the finest darn public university in America – Go Gators! – and I’ve enjoyed the challenge of giving this institution everything I’ve got,” Sasse wrote on X.
“But here’s the real line: Those callings are currently diametrically opposed. “Gator Nation needs a president who can keep charging hard, Melissa deserves a husband who can pull his weight, and my children need a father who can be home many more nights.”
Sasse became president of the University of Florida in 2022. According to a news release on the university’s website, Sasse will take on a teaching and advisory position while the board works to find an interim president as soon as possible. Sasse’s last day as president is July 31.
“Melissa has recently been diagnosed with epilepsy and has been battling with
