Multicultural Student Services Center Director Michael Tapscott announced his plans to retire after nearly 19 years at the University in an email Wednesday.

Tapscott worked to support underrepresented students through his influence over University policy and wider efforts to improve diversity and inclusion during his time at GW which began in 2003. He said in the email that he felt now was the time to retire following the two years of virtual MSSC programming due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the recent departures of MSSC staff members.

“Honestly speaking, it’s just time,” Tapscott said in an email sent to students. “After COVID-19, the departure of an amazing staff, the two years spent virtually and the numbers associated with my next birthday… I don’t think I can build back better the kind of MSSC that fed 19 years of amazing experiences and memories.”

Tapscott said his primary goal as MSSC director was to help students have a positive experience at GW that was similar to his own time at Tufts University, where he graduated in 1977.

“The faculty, staff, and senior administration were connected to our Black/Minority community in a way that fostered trust through their constant drive to advocate for us,” the email states. “I love my alma mater, and the majority of my experiences there, to this day. Supporting the growth of similar feelings in GW students was my primary goal in taking on this role in 2003.”

Tapscott said he is thankful for those who have supported and fostered connections to the MSSC through speaker events, alumni programming and social media during his tenure.

“Thank you for the opportunity to serve, I love you GW Multicultural, LGBTQ, and Interfaith Community,” Tapscott said.