The vice-principal and director of studies at Sabhal Mòr Ostaig has announced plans to retire in July.
John Norman MacLeod has led the academic affairs of Sabhal Mòr Ostaig since 1983, and is the second longest-serving member of staff, after Christine Primrose who began a year earlier.
Principal Professor Boyd Robertson said: “One cannot overstate the massive contribution John Norman has made to Sabhal Mòr and what he has achieved during his 35 years here.
“His service to the College and to the language is inestimable. John Norman has put his heart and soul into a Sabhal Mòr and he is at the beating heart of the life and work of the College.
“He is the back-bone of the institution and it will be a real challenge to find someone to replace him.”
Board chairman Angus MacLeod added: “Mention Sabhal Mòr Ostaig and you immediately think of John Norman.
“Every course at Sabhal Mòr Ostaig has been designed and validated under his leadership. A fine man, wise, understanding and highly committed.”
Highlands & Islands Regional MSP Rhoda Grant has lodged a motion in the Scottish Parliament recognising the contribution of John Norman Macleod.
She said: “John is at the beating heart of Sabhal Mòr Ostaig and his contribution to the college has been immense over the last 35 years.
“He is well known in Gaelic circles and has been a first class ambassador of not only the language, but the college also. I wish him well when he retires this summer.
Meanwhile, recruitment is currently underway for a new principal after Prof Robertson previously announced his intention to retireme in the summer.
Mr MacLeod said: “Although it is difficult to imagine Sabhal Mòr Ostaig without John Norman and Boyd. “They are both very deserving of some rest and relaxation after so many years of outstanding service between them.”
“The Board must look now to a new era at Sabhal Mòr.
“This is an opportunity for a new generation to take on the leadership of the College, with the mix of skills and qualities required to complement and augment the excellent work undertaken by both John Norman and Boyd for the college and for the Gaelic language in general.”