On 1 July 1978, Colbourn took office as the second president of the University of Central Florida (UCF). He was appointed by the Florida Board of Regents on 9 January 1978, to succeed Charles N. Millican, the founding president of UCF.[3] Under his leadership, and as the university's academic programs diversified and grew away from its strictly technological and scientific beginnings, Colbourn suggested that the university be renamed. In 1978, GovernorReubin Askew approved the change of name from Florida Technological University to the University of Central Florida.[3] He established the university's football program, honors program, the Central Florida Research Park and numerous satellite branch campuses. During his tenure, enrollment increased from around 11,000 in 1978 to over 18,000 in 1989.[2]
Colbourn stepped-down as university president in June 1989, but remained on the faculty. He was given the title of "President Emeritus" in 1990 and taught classes in history.[2] Colbourn retired from UCF in 2006 but still remained active in the university community.[citation needed]
Personal life
Colbourn married Beryl Evans in 1949, and has two daughters. He enjoyed swimming, listening to opera and symphony music.[2] He died at the age of 87 on 12 January 2015.[4]