The longtime president of Jacksonville State University says he will retire next year.

William Meehan told trustees that he’s stepping down as of June 2015. The school announced his decision on its Facebook page.

The delay in Meehan’s departure provides a chance for board members to name a successor.

Meehan has been president since July 1, 1999. He received bachelor’s and master’s degrees in biology from the school in 1972 and 1976, respectively, and began working at the school in 1977 as a biology instructor.

He earned a doctorate in higher education administration from the University of Alabama, and held numerous positions at JSU before becoming president. They include coordinator of the medical technology program, director of academic advisement, assistant vice president for academic affairs, associate vice president for academic and student affairs, acting vice president for academic affairs and acting vice president for institutional advancement.

Meehan also has been active in civic organizations, such as the United Way and Chambers of Commerce in both Calhoun and Etowah counties.

Jacksonville State has an enrollment of about 8,700 students.