College of Liberal Arts and Sciences Dean Michael Whiteford will retire from his position June 30.

Whiteford sent the news Wednesday via e-mail to LAS department chairpersons, faculty and staff, said Arne Hallam, liberal arts and sciences associate dean.

Whiteford wrote that he is moving to Oregon following retirement to be with family.

“I’ve had an absolutely terrific career at this institution,” Whiteford wrote in his e-mail. “I have been honored and blessed to have had an opportunity to work with many fantastic and talented individuals … I will leave with decidedly mixed feelings. I will always be a Cyclone.”

Whiteford has been on ISU faculty for 39 years.

“He’s been a magnificent leader and will be missed,” Hallam said. “He is a delightful dean and is delightful to work with.”