LINDSBORG, Kan. (AP) — Bethany College President Edward F. Leonard III is resigning to become president of a college in Alabama.

Leonard, who has been Bethany president since August 2007, announced Wednesday that he will become president of Birmingham Southern College in Birmingham, Alabama, this summer.

The Salina Journal reports enrollment has grown at Bethany during Leonard’s tenure from 537 to 717, several new buildings have been constructed and a major fundraising campaign exceeded its $20 million goal by $2 million.

However, the school has also consistently reported operating deficits. For the 2012-13 school year, the college reported $17.6 million in revenue and $19.2 million in expenses.

The Higher Learning Commission recently recommended that Bethany be put on notice to take steps to address its financial situation.