We were surprised to hear the news that Dr. Claude G. Perkins is ready to step down as president of Virginia Union University.

Dr. Perkins, who has been at the helm for the last seven years, has provided solid leadership, putting the 150-year-old historic institution on more solid footing for the future. Under his guidance, the university has escaped the financial and enrollment woes that continue to threaten HBCUs across the nation.

While the time, talent and treasure of alumni and friends still are a necessity, VUU has bright prospects at this time because of Dr. Perkins.

Beginning July 1, Dr. Perkins will be on a yearlong sabbatical, after which his current contract will expire.

We humbly suggest that perhaps Dr. Perkins, who has an extensive record with stellar results in K-12 education as superintendent of schools in Las Vegas-Clark County, Nev., rest during his sabbatical and return refreshed to the city — as a consultant or employee of Richmond Public Schools.

The problems facing our public schools are substantial and urgent and their resolution could use the knowledge, expertise and problem-solving skills of a seasoned administrator. Perhaps that’s the next role Dr. Perkins can undertake to further bolster the future of young people in the Richmond community.

We wish Dr. Perkins well during his deserved year off, and we hope this farewell isn’t forever.