SLIPPERY ROCK — Although Robert Smith has only been Slippery Rock University’s president since 2003, he has left a strong impression in the community.

Smith announced Tuesday that he would retire in January 2012.

Nick Neupauer, president of Butler County Community College, said Smith, who is on the BC3 Board of Trustees, is a colleague and a friend.

“Dr. Smith has been an amazing person to me in a number of ways,” Neupauer said.

He said Smith and his wife helped him and his wife, Tammy, when he was appointed the president of BC3 in 2007.

“They really took Tammy and I under their wings,” Neupauer said.

Although some people will be sad when Smith leaves, Neupauer said he is happy that Smith will be allowed to relax after a lifetime of service.

“Above all, I’m absolutely delighted for Bob and Ramona. This is a time for celebration,” Neupauer said.

Slippery Rock Mayor Ken Harris praised Smith’s involvement in the community, particularly his work with Slippery Rock Development.

“I think he has been not only an important player, but a productive participant in university-community relations,” Harris said.

He said he will miss Smith and his input.

“I certainly wish him well. I enjoyed working with him,” Harris said.

Royce Lorentz, a borough council member, agreed with Harris about Smith’s work in the borough.

“His involvement in community development will be missed a lot,” Lorentz said.

Of course, Lorentz said Smith’s impact on SRU was significant.

“I think he’s brought the university to a significantly higher plane than it was before he took office,” Lorentz said.

Jace Condravy, president of SRU’s Association of Pennsylvania State College and University Faculties chapter, said SRU is better for having Smith as its president.

“I think we have been very fortunate to have Bob Smith at Slippery Rock University,” Condravy said.

She said he always had a collegiate attitude regarding the union and APSCUF issues.

Jeremiah Rosser, SRU’s student government association president, said: “It’s unfortunate, and it’s going to be a great loss when President Smith actually retires.”

He said Smith has done an excellent job.

“The university is in a great state right now,” Rosser said.

Josh Young, president of SRU’s Council of Trustees, praised both Smith and his wife, Ramona.

“They’ve done a lot for a university that I care so deeply about,” Young said. “He has a great legacy to leave and we’re extremely honored to have him serve,” Young said.

Although he is disappointed that Smith will retire, he said it is not something the board would try to stop him from doing.

“When you’re ready to retire, it’s time,” Young said.

William Williams, SRU’s provost, said the fact that Smith announced his retirement now will allow the university to start its search for a replacement before he leaves.

“We will miss him. He’s been an amazing leader at the university. He’ll be a hard person to replace,” Williams said.

He said he was surprised by the announcement.

“I don’t think anyone saw this coming,” Williams said. “But he really did give his whole being to the university.”