Lake Michigan College President Trevor Kubatzke has announced he will retire on Dec. 31, 2026, after nearly a decade leading the institution.

Kubatzke, who has served as president since 2017, notified the Board of Trustees this week, giving the college more than two years to plan for his successor. The board has retained The Pauly Group of Chicago, a national academic search consulting firm, to guide the process.

Board Chair Joan Smith said Kubatzke’s early notice reflects his commitment to ensuring a smooth transition. “We are committed to conducting a thorough and inclusive search process to find the next leader who will continue building upon Lake Michigan College’s strong foundation,” she said in a statement.

During his tenure, Kubatzke oversaw initiatives to strengthen regional partnerships, expand dual enrollment programs, and build apprenticeships with area employers. He led campus modernization projects, introduced new academic pathways, and guided the college through the COVID-19 pandemic while maintaining educational continuity.

Kubatzke said his most meaningful moments were found in personal connections with students and faculty rather than statistics or milestones. “They have been found in the laughter echoing through the halls during Welcome Week, the determination in the eyes of a returning adult learner, the heartfelt conversations with faculty about teaching and learning, and the triumphs of students walking across the stage at commencement,” he wrote in his retirement letter.

Lake Michigan College, founded in 1946 as Benton Harbor Junior College, serves Berrien and Van Buren counties with campuses in Benton Harbor, Niles, South Haven and Allegan. The school offers associate degrees, certificates and transfer programs in more than 80 fields, along with on-campus housing and intercollegiate athletics.

Kubatzke said he plans to remain connected to community college education after retirement. “While I look forward to retirement and the new adventures that await, I will never be far from the mission that has defined my career,” he wrote.