Dear colleagues:
I am very pleased to announce that Gretchen Lohman has agreed to assume the role of interim assistant vice president for academic programs and partnerships effective November 1.
Gretchen is the senior assistant director for the University Academic Programs and Services (UAPS) Unit at the University of Illinois System. As interim assistant vice president for academic programs and partnerships, Gretchen will serve as the liaison with the Illinois Board of Higher Education (IBHE) and maintain working relationships with the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) and the Illinois Community College Board (ICCB) for curricular alignment and articulation matters. She will provide leadership in advancing the academic affairs mission of the system and is designated to provide advanced support to the executive vice president/vice president in the efficient performance of the official duties of the Office of Academic Affairs. The interim assistant vice president oversees UAPS and the supporting units.
Gretchen holds a bachelor’s degree in personnel/human resource management from the University of Northern Iowa, a master’s in counseling education from the University of Iowa, and a doctorate in higher education administration from Bowling Green State University.
I would like to again express my deep appreciation for the tremendous contributions of Julian Parrott during his 30-plus-year career in higher education within the U of I System. His contributions have provided a great foundation for all who follow. We wish him and his family all the best in the next chapter of life.
Please join me in welcoming Gretchen to her interim role and also congratulating Julian on a job so exceptionally well done.
A search for a permanent assistant vice president will be launched soon.
All the best,
Nicholas P. Jones
Executive Vice President and Vice President for Academic Affairs
