It's always on Friday afternoons.

Shortly after 5:30 p.m. today, Corey Ealons, director of African-American media for the Obama administration, sent an e-mail saying he was leaving his post, effective immediately.

"It is with some sadness, but also great anticipation for the future, that I make my exit from the White House today," he wrote. "It has been an honor to serve in my capacity … and on behalf of this President during this extraordinary time in our history."

Formerly the director of African-American media during the Obama-Biden campaign, Ealons was the liaison between the administration and all black media outlets, a position he'd held since President Obama took office.

Ealons’ exit is abrupt and -- at least to The Root -- unexpected. His next steps, he said, will include a “new role” at an unnamed communications firm.

Cord Jefferson is a staff writer at The Root. Follow him on Twitter [6].