Hampshire College in Amherst will soon start looking for a new president. That’s after Jonathan Lash announced he’s retiring next year. Lash is in his sixth year as president of Hampshire, which is located in Amherst.

Lash’s tenure includes an increase in financial aid and a push to make Hampshire more environmentally friendly, but it wasn’t all smooth. The college has had some budget problems under Lash, after enrollment came up short last year.

In addition, Lash was in charge when Hampshire faced national criticism for deciding not to fly the American flag in the center of campus, soon after one was burned. He later reversed that decision.

In an interview Friday, Lash said the college is thriving.

“We have the strongest students we’ve ever had, a very committed faculty who are here because they care so deeply about teaching, and an alumni body that feels very positive about the direction and vision of the school,” he said in an interview Friday.

Lash took medical leave last year and went through four back surgeries in three months. Lash said that time made him realize how precious every day is. He is 71 and plans to spend more time with his wife.