By Dylan Bradley/ne news editor

He said that one of his friends described the right time to retire to him several years ago.

“You’ll know,” Darlage said. “That’s how I began to feel this year in terms of my job. I feel I’ve given the best I can possibly give.”

Described as a consummate leader and educator by his staff, Darlage leaves behind a legacy of community outreach and dedication to students. His involvement in local chamber of commerce boards acted as a bridge between NE Campus and the surrounding community.

Business instructor Sally Proffitt said his service as president of the Northeast Tarrant Chamber and HEB Chamber resulted in better speakers, events and options for faculty and students.

“This has opened many opportunities and doors for our students and our graduates,” she said. “That comes from building networks and a full knowledge and understanding of resources available to us as citizens and students in the communities.”

Proffitt said the first thing Darlage did once hired was speak with faculty about ways he could help them better teach students.

“He came by appointment to visit with all divisional deans, department chairs and program coordinators,” she said. “He wanted to know the things I felt good about, the things that trouble me, my obstacles to do the job I felt like I could really do.”

She also said he always has a committee with rotating members to advise him on training and events for faculty and staff.

Vice president of academic affairs Gary Smith was on the hiring committee that chose Darlage. He said the committee typically forwarded three recommendations.

“We were so sure, we only gave him [the chancellor] Dr. Darlage’s name,” he said.

Computer science assistant professor Betty Dalton said she appreciated that he still taught courses despite his full-time obligation as president. She said she remembers when he could empathize with her about the transition to CampusCruiser, the precursor to Blackboard.

“He’s always been ready to help and has a tentative ear,” she said. “The biggest thing is that he has allowed faculty to do their jobs.”

Proffitt and Smith also said they admired his support and trust for faculty to do their jobs without micromanagement.

“One of my philosophies of what makes a good leader is someone who develops relationships, especially the people that he or she works with,” Darlage said.

Intending to continue teaching, Darlage has no intention of “sitting in his rocking chair” once retired.

“My hope is that the campus will continue to improve,” Darlage said. “We have excellent faculty members, excellent students, excellent staff and administrators. I would hope that they continue to strive to be the best that they can be and to keep students as their number one priority.”