Former Republican Sen. Ben Sasse announced Thursday he is stepping down as president of the University of Florida because of his wife’s epilepsy and memory problems.
In a lengthy letter addressed to “Gator Nation and valued friends,” the former Nebraska congressman wrote, “Gator Nation needs a president who will keep going strong. Melissa needs a husband who will do his part. And my children need a father who will be home more nights. After much prayer and my family’s tears, I today asked University of Florida President Mori Hosseini and the Board of Trustees to begin the search for a new president for the university.”
Sasse explained that his wife, Melissa, suffered an aneurysm and stroke in 2007, has been diagnosed with epilepsy and suffers from memory loss.
“It’s been hard, but we’ve been through it together,” he continued. “There’s been a lot of late nights, hard decisions, and a lot of ‘what’s most important?’ conversations.”
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Former Republican Sen. Ben Sasse announced Thursday he is stepping down as president of the University of Florida because of his wife’s epilepsy and memory problems. (Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images)
“I have two great callings in life right now. First, I am a husband and a father. Second, I have been blessed to serve as the president of America’s finest public university, Go Gators! And I have loved the challenge of giving my all to this university. But the bottom line is that these callings are in significant conflict with each other at this time.”
He said he wanted to “step back” and “focus more” on his family’s needs.
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“While I intend to remain involved in serving the students of the University of Florida, past, present and future, I must spend more time each week walking arm-in-arm with my dearest friends,” he continued.
Ben Sasse served as a senator from 2015 to 2023. (Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images)
When he took over as president in February last year, he thanked the university for the “warm” welcome it had given his family.
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“We love you. You have touched our hearts and made this more than just a job. You have made this our community. That’s why we’re not going anywhere. Our family will remain here in Gainesville. I will be here as president emeritus and professor and continue to teach classes. It’s great to be a Florida Gator! … It’s even better to be a husband and father,” Ben added, signing his letter. “With love and gratitude, Ben.”
