Kent Henning, Grand View University’s 13th president, announced today that he will retire at the end of the upcoming academic year after serving 22 years as president.

“I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to serve Grand View in this role,” Henning said. “I am even more grateful for the faculty, staff, students, board and community members who contributed to all we have accomplished over those years. As proud as I am of the past, I am equally excited about Grand View’s future.”

Since his arrival in 2000, Henning has guided the Des Moines liberal arts university to unprecedented growth and transformation. Notable accomplishments include enrollment growth and a campus expansion including the construction of the Johnson Wellness Center and Luhrs Athletic Complex, Rasmussen Center, Student Center and student housing. He also oversaw the expansion of undergraduate academic programs and faculty and the addition of graduate degree programs.

Henning’s vision to build a powerful athletics department has led to the addition of 18 athletic programs and 13 national championship titles. He also helped increase the endowment 725% and raise more than $60 million. The residential campus draws students from all over the U.S. and around the world.

“What Kent has done in his time at Grand View is extraordinary,” said Chris Littlefield, chairman of Grand View’s board of trustees. “The board is grateful for his leadership, and we were lucky to have him for so many years. He will be missed, but we respect his decision to retire and are confident that Grand View is well positioned for a successful leadership transition.”

The Grand View board of trustees will name a search committee and begin a national search immediately for Henning’s successor.

“It has been an honor to lead this institution, and I am excited about what lies ahead for Grand View,” Henning said. “It’s a difficult decision to retire, but it feels like the right time.”