Theological center's president to leave by year's end

ATLANTA - Scholar and author Robert Franklin will resign as president of Atlanta&#39;s Interdenominational Theological Center at the end of the year. The center is the nation&#39;s largest predominantly black institution of theological education. <br> <br> Franklin, 48, is on sabbatical and recovering from surgery following a research trip to India in April. <br> <br> ``The decision to depart now is bittersweet, but, I think correct,&#39;&#39; Franklin wrote in a letter to the board released Wednesday. ``It enables the ITC to move forward to identify new leadership rather than waiting for my recuperation. And, it provides me with ample time to recuperate, continue research that was interrupted, and consider new vocational opportunities that I would like to explore.&#39;&#39; <br> <br> In five years at ITC, Franklin oversaw creation of a national research center, developed a program on HIV-AIDS prevention in the black church, and sponsored national conferences. He also provided regular commentary for National Public Radio&#39;s ``All Things Considered.&#39;&#39; <br> <br> Oliver Haney, ITC acting president, will continue until a new president is inaugurated. Haney is dean of Charles H. Mason Theological Seminary.