June 6, 2008

After nearly two years as the University of Northern British Columbia’sfourth president, Don Cozzetto has stepped down from the position,effective immediately.

“There were many reasons behind Dr. Cozzetto’s personal decision tostep down,” says Don Rix, Chair of the UNBC Board of Governors.“Unfortunately, he felt he couldn’t advance his vision of UNBC.”

For the remainder of the month of June, Acting Provost James Randallwill assume the additional responsibility of Acting President untilJuly 1, when he will be replaced by new Provost, Dr. Mark Dale, whowill be coming to UNBC from the University of Alberta. Dr. Cozzettowill return to the United States, where he spent 18 years beforejoining UNBC.

“The Board wishes Dr. Cozzetto well and conveys its heartfelt thanks tohim for his service to UNBC. He has demonstrated tremendous leadershipin marshalling the University’s strengths for the good of theinstitution and region. For example, UNBC posted a record enrolment inthe fall semester, the University won its first-ever provincialathletics title, and the largest graduating class in UNBC’s historycelebrated on campus and during five regional grad celebrations thispast week,” says Dr. Rix. “UNBC will continue to have a bright futureif governments and northern communities continue to band together withthe University’s leadership, faculty, staff, students, and alumni.Every university has challenges and UNBC is no different, but it’s alsoa special place with incredible potential.”

The Board of Governors is scheduled to meet later this month. Inaddition to selecting a new Chair and approving the 2008-09 operatingbudget, the Board will consider the appointment of an Acting Presidentfor the period following July 1 and the process for selecting UNBC’snext President.

Contact:
Rob van Adrichem, Director of Media and Public Relations, UNBC – 250.960.5622