The commitment and innovation of each UTA faculty and staff member continues to be the basis for our collective success—more so during these unusual and challenging times. I witness it every day and have heard so many inspiring examples, as I have had numerous opportunities to engage and update many of our campus governance organizations—albeit virtually, given the current social distancing guidelines.

I am also appreciative of Chancellor Milliken’s and the Board of Regents’ confidence in and support of UTA through this leadership transition and of UTA’s continued progress as an institution that embraces access and excellence equally.

To help us continue our forward momentum, I would like to make two senior leadership announcements. These decisions were carefully crafted upon consultations with our deans, president’s leadership council, and faculty senate chairs. I believe these appointees will help ensure continuity in both advancing our commitment to our core missions of student success and impactful research and in building upon our efforts to better position UTA as a strong partner in Arlington, North Texas, and the state.

Firstly, I am pleased to announce that Pranesh B. Aswath, who has served as senior vice provost for academic planning and policy since 2016, has agreed to serve as interim provost and vice president for academic affairs. In addition to his extensive three-decade record of teaching and research as a materials science and engineering professor and an international authority in processing and properties of advanced materials, Pranesh brings a diversity of relevant experiences in academic operations, initiatives and planning, and collaborations with UT System’s Academic Affairs Office. I have been very impressed with his deep knowledge of the relevant academic issues and his dedication to expanding upon meaningful collaborations with our outstanding faculty and staff. While it is essential for our institution’s vibrancy that we commit to creating more academic diversity in the president and provost offices in the long-term, I hope you all agree with my assessment that Dr. Aswath is the most suitable candidate to lead the Office of the Provost during the transition period.

Secondly, as I shared with you in my vision for this transitionary period, I believe that it is imperative for the continued upward trajectory of UTA that we build upon and drive new partnerships with our alumni, corporate partners, public officials, and other external stakeholders. As a result, I am honored to announce that former UTA President James D. Spaniolo has graciously agreed to serve UTA again, as senior adviser for external engagement reporting to me.

Simply put, former president Spaniolo exudes Maverick Pride. As UTA’s seventh president, serving from 2004 to 2013, he was successful in positioning UTA and building many partnerships that serve well both this institution and our communities throughout North Texas.  I welcome the opportunity for Jim to assist us and to guide UTA in enhancing our external partnerships, collaborations, and relationships. These relationships will be critical to the continued and future success of our great institution.

I hope you will join me in thanking and congratulating these talented and accomplished professionals and supporting them as they begin their new roles effective May 11, 2020.

Additionally, I want to express my appreciation for everyone’s work to conclude the spring semester and transition to Maymester and summer instruction.  We will soon be providing an update about our intentions for the fall semester.

Please let me thank you again all for your continued dedication to UTA and our students, and for your personal support.

As I shared earlier, together, we will stay focused, stay healthy, and stay strong.