"I do not think it's a total surprise," said Kay Scanlan, director of public affairs at UMass. "He has always said that he wanted to leave after eight or 10 years."
According to Scanlan, Scott's decision to leave UMass was triggered by the conclusion of a six-year development plan. All of the UMass campuses have recently been asked to formulate a plan for the next 10 years.
According to a UMass press release, "Scott said now is a most appropriate time to step down because a significant phase in the campus's development is coming to an end."
Scott, knowing that he would not stay at UMass through the conclusion of the next 10-year plan, said in the press release, "While we have begun a planning process for the next 10 years, it is crucial that the next administration is deeply involved in developing and implementing these plans."
According to Scanlan, Scott, who will take a year's paid leave, will likely use the year for "writing, traveling and thinking about the next step."
Scanlan also suggested that Scott "needs to spend some time with his family." Scott's 28-year-old son was seriously injured this weekend after falling out of a window. He crushed his pelvis and part of his spine. However, Scanlan emphasized that Scott's decision was planned well before this weekend's accident.
"David Scott made an enormous contribution to the University," said University President William M. Bulger in the press release. "Thanks to his skill, vision and determination, UMass-Amherst has risen to new heights."
As Chancellor, Scott has overseen the $125 million fund-raising campaign that will conclude a year ahead of schedule and significant campus renovations.
Scanlan noted Scott's dedication to making UMass a truly international community, increasing the number of international students as well as the number of students who study abroad.
"It will be very hard to replace this chancellor," said Scanlan.