Though he plans to stay in the area, the retirement of Dr. Douglas W. Boyce, who has served as the president of Paul D. Camp Community College since 2002, will leave a big void.

Boyce, 63, announced recently that he plans to retire in 2010. His leadership at the college and beyond will be sorely missed.

Since taking the helm at PDCCC seven years ago, he has played an integral role at the college and in the Western Tidewater community.

The community college experienced record enrollment, increased graduation rates and added partnerships with programs, people and businesses here.

The soft-spoken Boyce has been a powerful advocate for his college, even during difficult economic times. And he has committed to fundraising for the school right up until he retires.

The search for a new president will be launched later this fall.

During retirement, Boyce said he places to play his guitar, do family research and do some consulting work as well as spend more time with his family.

Hopefully he will be around to give advice to the new man or woman who will take the helm at PDCCC. They’d be wise to heed it.