"It's a good time in my own personal career, for my family, and where I want to be at the time, it's also a good time for the college in terms of a transition of leadership over the next year," said SCCC President Dr. Gabe Basil.

Dr. Basil will be retiring from his position effective December 1 of this year. He said it's been a great experience from day one.

SCCC president retiring

After 17 years of service as president of Schenectady County Community College, Dr. Gabe Basil says it's time to say goodbye.

Throughout his time of service, he's also noticed a change in community colleges in general.

"The enrollment growth has not just been here in Schenectady, it's nationwide and it's because of that change in that image of community colleges and the important role of the higher education fabric throughout this nation," said Basil.

During his 17 years as president, Dr. Basil has witnessed Schenectady County Community College grow from a few buildings to an interactive downtown campus.

"And then we've introduced this connectiveness throughout the campus, and now moving across Washington Avenue to go further downtown," said Basil.

And speaking of 17 years, it just so happens he's currently the longest serving president at a Capital region college, and the longest ever here at Schenectady. Any thoughts on that longevity?

"It might just be an opportunity that was there, but at the same time it's because I've enjoyed doing this work and working with the people and I think the feeling was mutual and that's why it turned out to be the longest serving," said Basil.

And now it's time for future plans.

"My plans are to spend more time with family, travel, and just relax," he said.

Graduating from one chapter to another.