This interview study examined seven community college presidents' experiences of facing a sudden and unplanned stepping aside (e.g., unexpectedly needing to resign or termination) in order to understand the meaning of the transition experience for leaders. It provides an up-close view of presidents' perspectives on leaving the college. Despite the best efforts and good performance of presidents, sooner or later each encountered a crisis that challenged his or her role and identity as a leader, and they came to a crossroad in their careers. Being in control of stepping aside from the presidency, regardless of what brought them to that decision point, distinguished how they perceived the crisis that led up to their exit and how they viewed the transition. Presidents discussed the importance of recognizing that sometimes things happen that cannot be controlled such as broken promises and a change in board membership. The presidents we interviewed were celebrated with pomp and circumstance when entering; however, exiting the presidency for some was dramatically different, i.e., lonely, disappointing, even devastating. Leaders need an exit plan. Conditions contributing to a smooth, nontoxic leaving are described. (Contains 2 tables.)