Upham said he has been working with the board of trustees, which has begun the process to find the next president, and that all members of the TU family will have a chance to share their input in that process.

Upham plans to take a sabbatical in 2017 before coming back to TU as a member of the faculty.

“Stead has been an exemplary and visionary leader for our university and a strong advocate for our community,” said Duane Wilson, board of trustees chairman. “We cannot say enough about his and Peggy’s dedication to the TU family. Their list of accomplishments is astounding, and we thank them for their service.”

During Upham’s time as president, TU has consistently been ranked among the top universities by U.S. News and World Report. He has raised more than $750 million in new gifts in the past decade, according to the school’s press release.

During the video address, Upham pointed to the university’s work with the neighboring Kendall-Whittier area, its championing of the arts and the school’s expansion into medical education.