He was appointed as vice president in 1996.

“My greatest joy has been working with students to make sure we expand services for all student populations — that we help to create an environment that is conducive to student learning, development and success,” June said.

“(There’s) an old saying ‘To every thing there is a season,’ (and) now is the time
for someone else to step in.”

MSU President Lou Anna K. Simon said June’s dedication for students and his active
research agenda focusing on underrepresented students will leave a lasting legacy at the university.

“Dr. June has been an extraordinary asset to MSU and is very well respected in the state and nationally, but we’re confident that we’ll be able to move forward based on the legacy that he’s left,” Simon said.

When June returns to the faculty next year, it is expected he will play a role with the MSU Honors College and take a position within the psychology department, Simon said.

June said he would still like to keep up with student issues after he steps down.
June’s continuous assistance in students’ development and increasing their academic growth builds upon his reputation at MSU, MSU Provost Kim Wilcox said.

“(June) has a legacy of bringing people together,” Wilcox said.

“He’s always been about communication among students, faculty and staff, and I believe that’s really his mark on the university.”

Simon and MSU Academic Governance will take up the issue of filling the empty position in the coming months, Wilcox said.

June became the acting vice president for student affairs and services in 1994 while retaining duties associated with his position as associate provost, according to an MSU release.

He also won a numerous awards from student groups, including the Black Student Alliance and was the recipient of All University Excellence in Diversity Lifetime Achievement Award and the Distinguished Black Alumni Award at
MSU.

Although June is stepping down from one position and into another, he said “stepping out” or aside would be a more appropriate description.

“Again, I still have three-and-a-half months to go… My biggest passion was working with students,” June said.

“I just want to thank the student body for putting up with me for all these years.”

Staff member Kayla Habermehl contributed to this report.