From the President’s Desk: A university update on the VP (International and Enterprise) search

I want to share an update regarding the search for the vice-president (International and Enterprise). After careful consideration, the university has decided to pause this search due to current budgetary pressures. 

Advancing our international and enterprise goals remains a key university objective. Subject to board approval, the VP (International and Enterprise) search will recommence as soon as the spring of 2025. 

In the interim, I want to ensure continued progress by bringing together the Global Engagement team from UA International and the team from Enterprise under a chief strategy officer (International and Enterprise) in the Office of the President. This role, which will report directly to me, will focus on laying the groundwork for establishing a permanent Vice President portfolio.

I am pleased to announce that Dr. David Bressler will take on the role of chief strategy officer (International and Enterprise), effective Jan. 1, 2025, for a six-month assignment. Dr. Bressler’s primary focus will be to unite these teams, ensuring we are well-prepared to establish a permanent vice-president portfolio.

I am grateful to Dr. Bressler for his willingness to step into this leadership role during this transitional period. His experience and collaborative approach will be instrumental in building the foundation for our future success in international and enterprise partnership ambitions.

I want to thank the search committee members for volunteering their time and energy, and I look forward to having the committee reconvene in the spring. 

Although the Global Engagement team is moving to the Office of the President, the remaining staff at UA International will continue their global learning and international student and visitor services activities under Doug Weir's leadership. Earlier this year, Cen Huang announced that she would be taking a year’s leave and retiring from the role of vice-provost and AVP International at the end of 2025. Effective Jan. 1, 2025, Doug will serve as acting vice-provost and AVP International, ensuring stability and continuity in UA International’s activities.

I will keep the university community informed as we proceed.