PIERRE, S.D.(WNAX)- Dr Brian Maher, the C.E.O. and Executive Director of the South Dakota Board of Regents announced he would be resigning when his contract expires at the end of June.

Regents President Pam Roberts says Maher joined the Board at a critical time.

Roberts says she tried to persuade Maher to stay on.

Roberts says Nathan Lukkes (lucas) will succeed Maher in the leadership role.

Maher joined the board in 2020. He and his wife will be moving back to Kearney Nebraska.

Maher also served as Superintendent of Sioux Falls Public Schools before joining the Regents.