By Monique Larkin

By Monique Larkin

Chancellor Salvatore Rotella announced his retirement from his position Oct. 18.

His retirement will take effect October 16, 2006.

“Well, it does not come as a surprise,” said Ray Maghroori, Vice Chancellor of Academic Affairs. “We’re going to miss him. He was a major contribution; he was important to the evolution of RCC. His legacy will be here for many years.”

In announcing his retirement in an e-mail to the college, Rotella said that he is looking to pursue other opportunities.

“The simple fact is that I am 71 years old,” Rotella said. “Opportunities exist–both professional and personal-that I wish to pursue outside RCC.”

Rotella said that during the Board of Trustees meeting Oct. 18, he and the Board discussed other options that he could participate in, including serving as a RCC consultant for two years.

“He has played a very positive role at RCC,” said Board Trustee Jose Medina. “The news of his retirement has not really sunk in yet. I am looking forward to the change-new transition and a new chancellor.”

Viewpoints attempted to contact Rotella after hours for further comment, but he was not available.