Frostburg State University president Ronald H. Nowaczyk, 74, died Friday of cancer on what was set to be his last day on the job, according to a university statement. 

Nowaczyk, who led Frostburg State for nine years, announced in mid-January that he was stepping down due to health issues.

“While I regret having to take this action, as many of you know, I have been combating medical issues for some time,” he wrote to the campus community. “I had hoped I could successfully overcome my health difficulties and continue with my duties and responsibilities as President. Unfortunately, I have had some new medical challenges in recent months.”

Nowaczyk added that he wanted to spend more time with his family amid health challenges.

At the time of his resignation announcement, Jay Perman, chancellor of the University System of Maryland, wrote, “Every action he’s taken as president has been to strengthen the university, the students it serves, and the community that rises with Frostburg’s eager engagement and leadership.” He also commended Nowaczyk for “his visionary and compassionate leadership.”

The announcement following Nowaczyk’s death on Friday credited him with developing a strategic plan to improve student success; expanding program offerings, including new nursing degrees; and guiding FSU through the COVID-19 pandemic, among other achievements.