The first female president of the University of Alabama is stepping down. The university released a statement from President Judy Bonner on Wednesday saying she will leave office no later than Sept. 30, 2015. Bonner says she wants to return to the classroom. She plans to take a yearlong sabbatical and resume teaching in fall 2016. Bonner says she's announcing her departure early to allow time for trustees to begin a search for her replacement next month. Bonner was selected as the first woman to permanently serve as president of the Tuscaloosa campus two years ago. She previously served as interim president following the resignation of Guy Bailey. Bonner also worked as provost and other academic roles at Alabama. She's the older sister of former U.S. Rep. Jo Bonner.
UA President to leave post, return to teaching
