July 17, 2008
For Immediate Release
For an Interview:
Spencer Jenkins
(801) 321-7110
Cell: (801) 755-2997
State Board of Regents Chair, Jed Pitcher, Thursday, appointed Dr. Elizabeth Hitch as the interim president of Utah Valley University (UVU). Hitch will assume her duties on August 18 when current President Bill Sederburg leaves to become the 7th Commissioner of Higher Education for the State of Utah.
"I am confident Dr. Hitch will ensure there is a smooth transition at Utah Valley University," said Board of Regents Chair Jed Pitcher. "The University plays a critical role in meeting the higher education needs of central Utah. Liz is a highly qualified leader who will maintain the University's progress."
Hitch is currently Utah Valley University's vice president for academic affairs, a position she has held since July 1, 2007. She has over 35 years of experience in higher education. Previous to this position she has served as provost and vice chancellor for academic affairs and professor at the University of Wisconsin - La Crosse, including eight months as interim chancellor. She has also been the dean of the College of Education and Professional Studies at Eastern Illinois University.
In addition to her administrative posts in Illinois and Wisconsin, Hitch spent 15 years at Central Michigan University, where she earned tenure and rank as a full professor and served as director of teacher education. She spent 10 years at The University of Michigan, where her final service was as head of instructional design in health sciences.
"At UVU, we have a clear plan and vision for the future based upon our model for engaged learning," Hitch said. "We're not going to miss a beat as we work on the strategic directions that have been endorsed by University faculty and staff, the Trustees, and our community partners. There is a lot of energy at Utah Valley, and we are going to apply that energy to enhancing our service to the community as an engaged learning institution. Our enthusiasm and success will attract a great pool of candidates to be considered for the presidency at Utah Valley University."
Hitch has a doctorate degree in educational psychology from the University of Michigan and baccalaureate and master's degrees in family ecology from Michigan State University.
Hitch and her husband Keith have been married over 35 years. They have two daughters, Meredith Sinclair and Greer Hitch, who both reside in Salt Lake, a son- in- law, Cory Sinclair, and a grandson, Adam.
"Dr. Hitch is the logical fit for this position at this critical juncture in the institution's history," said President William A. Sederburg. "She has vast experience building graduate programs and already has experience serving in a presidential role. I look forward to working with her in this capacity."
Chair Pitcher also announced that the search for a new president of UVU will be co- chaired by regents Marlon Snow and Jack Zenger, assisted by regent vice- chair Bonnie Jean Beesley and regent Joel Wright. The search committee will also include representatives of the UVU Board of Trustees, faculty, staff, students, and members of the community. The names of the rest of the committee will be announced later.
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Written by:
Kim Chapman
(801) 863-6807