A 1971 graduate of York College will be returning to his alma mater, though this time as president.

York College officials announced Monday that Steven Eckman would become the college's 20th president effective Jan. 15.

The Eau Claire, Wisconsin native has a background in higher education. He's spent the last two years as executive vice president at Ohio Valley University in West Virginia.

York College began a national search for a new president last spring after Wayne Baker announced he would retire by the end of 2008-09 academic year.

Baker has served as president the last 13 years. He recently accepted a new role as chancellor of York College and plans to dedicate his time entirely to fund-raising.