Young explains that he made the decision after what he calls "deliberate thought and much self reflection." He also tells staff that the Board of Directors will immediately commence the recruitment of a new CEO two ensure a smooth transition.

While no one knows for sure why Young is leaving, we know that he took a beating when he did what hadn't been done for 16 years: under his leadership Social Security revised the contribution schedule and increased payments made by employers and employees. That was a tough pill for swallow, and to administer - and it may have taken its toll on Young, who is a Doctor of Ecology.