ROCHESTER, N.Y. (WROC) – RIT National Technical Institute for the Deaf President Gerard Buckley is stepping down in 2025 after 15-years leading the institution. After graduating in 1978 with a bachelor's in social work, he eventually earned a doctorate in Special Education from the University of Kansas. Buckley went on to be the first RIT and NTID alumnus to become president of the college. He joined NTID in 1990 as an assistant professor and chairperson on NTID's Department of Educational Outreach. Buckley was also associate dean of student services, and assistant vice president for college advancement before being named president. "Throughout his career, Gerry has been a fierce advocate for students, while dedicating his professional life to improving opportunities for members of the deaf and hard-of-hearing community," RIT President David Munson Said. "He is respected throughout the nation in the field of deaf education and, on our campus, he is recognized as a leader in fostering a highly inclusive, supportive culture. For me, it has been, and continues to be, a true pleasure to work with Gerry." Buckley's last day as President will be on July 18.