East Texas Baptist University President Bob E. Riley announced his plans to retire in July, 2009 during the ETBU board of trustees meeting on Friday. After serving 16 years, Riley has served the second longest term as president in the university's 96 year history.

"Although this presidency has been a wonderful experience, I believe that it is time for a new vision and leadership for ETBU," he said.

Hal Cornish, chairman of the university's board of trustees, praised its president. "During (Riley's tenure) there have been many significant accomplishments at ETBU. The campus has been expanded greatly and beautifully through the addition of many new buildings and the renovations of several others. The quality of student education has also been greatly improved," he said.

Numerous highlights include: record enrollments; significant increase in the endowment; organizing the university into seven schools, with deans; completed more than $25 million in capital projects; expanded institutional and instructional technology; and moved from NCAA Division II (scholarship athletics) to NCAA Division III (non-scholarship athletics).

The university's goal is to conduct a national search and have a new president in place prior to Riley's retirement next year to assure continuity in that important position.

Riley's hobbies include antiquing, travel and jogging. He and his wife plan to move to Hideaway Lake which is just north of Tyler.