Announcement from Chancellor Parnell
by Green & Gold News |
Dear UAA Community,
When President Pitney appointed me as UAA Chancellor, I promised her that I would, to the best of my ability, serve four years and perhaps more. As the final semester of my fourth academic year at UAA unfolds, I’ve reflected on how far we have come as UAA since 2021 and whether I could commit to another few years in this role. Ultimately, for family reasons, I’ve concluded that I should retire and this week provided my letter of resignation to President Pitney effective mid-May.
I hope to have more flexibility to care for parents and to focus on relationships with other family members, friends and former colleagues. Additionally, I plan to have more time to research, write and continue coaching or teaching emerging leaders.
President Pitney will be providing more details about the transition plan later this afternoon, ensuring a smooth and well-coordinated transition for our university.
In the meantime, until mid-May, I’ll remain committed to working strongly with the entire UAA team to benefit our students, employees and communities. I recently expanded the Chancellor’s Cabinet to include governance leaders, a community campus representative and additional representation from Student Affairs and Academic Affairs. This expanded Cabinet should ensure greater transparency of decision-making and improve two-way communication with university leadership.
In addition, we need to begin now to update or replace the UAA 2027 Strategic Plan by the end of 2026. The newly expanded Cabinet will begin foundational planning this spring for this all-UAA strategic planning process.
UAA is well-positioned for a bright future. We have vibrant campuses with high-quality faculty and caring, effective staff and leadership. UAA adds value to Â鶹ÎÞÂë°æ communities and employers through your work. We offer a clear value proposition to our students as the affordable, accessible path to careers and meaningful lives. I will always count it an honor to serve and to have served at UAA where together we create opportunities for others through this great work.
Sincerely,
Sean Parnell
UAA Chancellor
