Megan Olson, vice chancellor for University Advancement, announces personnel moves in University Advancement

I am pleased to announce that Kristin DeSmith has accepted the permanent assistant vice chancellor for University Relations position in University Advancment. Kristin has been serving in this post as interim since July 2007. Previously, Kristin served as the senior public relations specialist in Advancement since September 2006.

Over the past year, Kristin has done an outstanding job of building the University Relations team. She brings creativity, enthusiasm and media savvy to this position. Her talents for writing, editing and mentoring serve this team and the University very well.

Kristin has worked in public relations for more than 11 years. She has also been an adjunct instructor for UAA's Department of Creative Writing and Literary Arts since 2003 and the Department of English since 2006.

Beth Rose, who has been serving as the interim assistant vice chancellor for Development for the last 11 months has chosen to return to her senior development officer position in Advancement.

Beth has done an excellent job of managing and growing the development team this past year. Under her leadership, Advancement has exceeded FY08's fund raising goals by more than $15 million. Beth has also been instrumental in Advancement's ongoing five-year strategic process.

Beth's career includes 20 years of experience in non-profit management, fundraising, public relations and media production. Her management experience was invaluable during this year of transition and growth in University Advancment.

Beth is committed to UAA and will continue to contribute to the growth and success of the University. Beth will slowly transition from the AVC role over the coming weeks, as a search for the permanent AVC for Development is launched.

Please join me in congratulating Kristin and in wishing Beth the best as she returns to her senior development officer role. We are fortunate to have both of these talented and committed professionals at UAA.

Megan Olson
Vice Chancellor for University Advancement