After seven years, Saint Joseph’s University President Mark Reed is leaving his position for the same job at Loyola University Chicago, effective August 15, writes Ryan Mulligan for the Philadelphia Business Journal.

The move comes as the college nears the completion of its merger with the University of Sciences. Provost Cheryl McConnell will serve as the school’s interim president.

“I have every confidence in the university’s unfolding plans and trajectory,” said Reed. “Saint Joseph’s is in the midst of one of the most exciting chapters of its nearly 175-year history.”

Reed, who was named the first non-Jesuit president of the university in 2015, was slated to oversee the combined school after Paul Katz, USciences President, announced his retirement prior to the merger.

The merger is expected to finalize on June 1. After Reed’s departure, McConnell will be in charge of overseeing the schools’ integration ahead of the fall semester.

Reed is a Philadelphia native who came to Saint Joseph’s from Fairfield University, where he served as senior vice president and chief of staff. During his seven years with the school, he doubled its endowment to $410 million.

Read more about Saint Joseph’s University and Mark Reed in the Philadelphia Business Journal.