Ithaca Mayor Svante Myrick has announced he will be stepping down from the role.

The city's 44th mayor announced he has accepted a position as the Executive Director of the People for the American Way.

Myrick announced his resignation on social media Wednesday, stating "I believe my service can make a difference in the national conversation on voting and elections, and I want to protect that American dream for people of all backgrounds."

When first sworn in to office on 2012, Myrick became Ithaca's youngest mayor at 24 years old. He was also the city's first mayor of color.

In February, Acting Mayor Laura A. Lewis will be sworn in to office to serve until the next election is held.

Read the mayor's full statement at the link below: