photo by: Mike Yoder

Bill Lacy, director of the Dole Institute of Politics at the University of Kansas, is pictured during an event at the center in this file photo from Oct. 29, 2017.

Bill Lacy, director of the Dole Institute of Politics for the past 14 years, announced Tuesday that he would begin a modified retirement plan with the university beginning in January 2019.

Lacy plans to remain director of the Dole Institute for up to five years.

“It reflects my view that we need to take time to make the transition,” he said.

Lacy said he wanted to be transparent about his decision.

“We want people to know finding a replacement will be a big priority over the next three to five years. I didn’t want to come in and announce I am retiring in three months,” Lacy said.

A number of highly talented people are on staff to help with the transition, he said.

“I have barely begun a discussion with the board,” Lacy said. “I will be here a few more years. My goal would be to have the process in place with a plan when I know I will leave.”

While he might cut back a little on his work in the coming year, it will not be noticeable to the public, he said.

“My commitment to the chancellor and the Doles (former Sens. Bob and Elizabeth) is I will continue to be in charge and responsible for everything that happens. We don’t plan on slowing down.”

Lacy said that Maggie Mahoney, associate director and chief operating officer of the institute, had already taken over more of the day-to-day management.

Programs and operations will not change, he said.

“You will still see world-class programming that reflects our mission of bipartisanship, philosophical balance and respect for other points of view. We will also maintain our strong commitment to our student culture,” Lacy said in a letter announcing his plans.

Richard Norton Smith served as the first director when the institute opened in July 2003. Lacy replaced him. Prior to coming to Lawrence, Lacy had a 20-year career in Washington, D.C., as a campaign strategist.