TO:  University of Idaho Faculty and Staff
FROM:  Scott Green, President
DATE:  April 2, 2020
SUBJECT:  John Wiencek Accepts Position at Akron

Executive Vice President and Provost John Wiencek has accepted a position as the Executive Vice President and Provost at The University of Akron. Akron announced his acceptance this morning.

In his five years at the University of Idaho, John led the university through developing a strategic plan, program assessment and modifications, difficult budget decisions and has worked to improve communication with faculty. I appreciate all he has done for our university and wish him the best in his new role. He will begin work at Akron on May 29, 2020.

It is a difficult time across higher education, and we are certainly seeing that here at U of I. With so many things happening — program prioritization, budget cuts, COVID-19 and its ramifications, online course delivery and more — I believe stability and consistency will help drive success. In the face of these challenges, I am considering options for an interim provost while preparing to launch a national search for our next academic leader. I am implementing a survey this week so representative leadership can express opinions and offer any other suggestions before I make my final decision.

Again, please join me in congratulating John on this move that takes him back to where he graduated from high school and where he is close to his family. I know he will provide terrific academic leadership at Akron.

Scott Green
President

president@uidaho.edu
uidaho.edu/president