(Bradenton, Fla., Sept. 26, 2023) – State College of Florida, Manatee-Sarasota (SCF) President Carol F. Probstfeld has announced she will retire July 1, 2024, the end of the current academic year.

Named SCF’s sixth president in 2012, Probstfeld’s retirement from the presidency will cap 27 years of administrative leadership in higher education including 11 years as SCF president, 10 years as SCF vice president of finance and administration, and six years at other educational institutions.

Probstfeld announced her intention to retire in a personal statement at the Sept. 26 meeting of the SCF district board of trustees. In her comments, Probstfeld referred to numerous accomplishments achieved during her presidency as outlined in a strategic plan review presented earlier in the meeting.

“Doing the right thing for students has been my motivating factor, and knowing that I am where I can make a positive impact on students’ lives is what I love most about my job,” Probstfeld said.

Noting that SCF had been challenged by outside factors, unprecedented events, and stiff headwinds, both literal and figurative, Probstfeld said that she was most proud that SCF had earned the trust and support of the community as a vital resource and the first choice for local higher education.

“We were able to get here with a long list of recognitions and accolades thanks to the support of amazing faculty, staff, students, and community partners who had faith in my vision for our College and committed to work alongside me,” she added.

“We are grateful for Dr. Probstfeld’s humble and bold leadership,” SCF Trustee Chair Rod Thomson said. “Under her leadership, SCF has grown its academic programs, expanded its student services, and gained the confidence of the community and our constituents as the first choice for quality higher education and to meet the needs of our local workforce, now and in the future.”

Probstfeld assured SCF trustees that she will remain committed to and focused on her responsibilities as president, and she promised, “I always will be an ardent champion and advocate for State College of Florida.”

The board will decide at a future meeting on a process for selecting the next president. Information will be shared when available.

President Probstfeld’s announcement and SCF’s “10-Year Look Back” strategic plan review can be accessed via the President’s page.