Rutgers University president to leave office at end of school year

NEW BRUNSWICK, N.J. - Rutgers University President Robert Barchi has confirmed that he will step down at the end of the upcoming school year but will remain on the faculty.

The 72-year-old Barchi announced his plans Tuesday during a meeting of the university's Board of Trustees in New Brunswick. He has led Rutgers since 2012.

Barchi oversaw the state university's integration with the former University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey. The university also broke fund-raising records during his tenure, expanded its health sciences program and joined the Big Ten athletic conference.

But he's also faced criticism for tuition increases, which have occurred every year under his leadership.

Before joining Rutgers, Barchi served for eight years as president of Thomas Jefferson University in Philadelphia.