Khalid Latif, a prominent figure at the Islamic Center (IC) at New York University (NYU), has announced his decision to step down from his role by the end of the summer. After 20 years of service, he shared the news in an emotional message, reflecting on his journey and expressing gratitude for the community he has served since his undergraduate years.

“As’salaamu alaykum, I hope all of you are doing well, inshallah,” he began, addressing the community. “After some months of deliberation, istikhara, and istishara, everything indicates that now is a good time to move on from NYU.”

Latif, who started working at the IC in 2005, noted the evolution of the center, which began as a small initiative during his senior year in 2003. Over the years, it has grown into a thriving institution serving the spiritual and social needs of the NYU Muslim community. “I don’t think any of us thought then that it would grow into what it has today, and I’m confident it will continue to grow that much more inshallah,” he said.

While the decision to leave was not easy, Latif emphasized his commitment to building stronger institutions and services for the Muslim community. “Every day, we see the challenges that Muslims face and the need for stronger institutions and services. My hope is to take what I’ve learned here and apply it to other projects and initiatives for our community’s growth, inshallah.”

Latif assured the community of a seamless transition, working closely with Jason Pina, NYU’s Senior Vice President for University Life, and the IC’s staff. He will remain actively involved until the end of August to ensure continuity.

Reflecting on his journey, he shared, “I gave my first khutbah at the IC when I was 18 years old and started working here when I was 22. Allah has blessed me with a lot in my life, and one of the blessings I’ve been most grateful for is the opportunity to serve a community like this one.”

Khalid Latif concluded his heartfelt message with a request for prayers, saying, “I love each of you more than you know and am excited and committed to continue to build for us for as long as Allah allows me to do so. Barakallahu feekum – may Allah bless you and your loved ones always and continue to bless our Islamic Center at NYU. Ameen.”

His departure marks the end of an era, but Latif’s legacy at the IC and his contributions to the Muslim community at large remain an enduring source of inspiration.