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Deaton Offered Appointment to Interim Chancellorship

April 17, 2004

University of ÃÛÌÇÖ±²¥ System President Elson S. Floyd announced today that he has invited UM-Columbia Provost and Executive Vice-Chancellor Brady Deaton to serve as interim chancellor of the University of ÃÛÌÇÖ±²¥-Columbia.

“I asked Provost Deaton to serve in the role of interim chancellor at the University of ÃÛÌÇÖ±²¥-Columbia because I believe he is the most qualified person for the job,” Floyd said. “Brady has extensive knowledge of the campus, its mission and academic programs, and its many important stakeholders. I am hopeful that he will agree to take on this new leadership challenge.”

Floyd noted that Deaton is a finalist for the presidency of the University of Tennessee. “We are proud that one of our own would be considered to lead another prestigious institution,” Floyd said. “We will have to await the outcome of the search process in which Provost Deaton is presently engaged.” The University of Tennessee has indicated that its presidential search will conclude next week.

Deaton joined MU in 1989 as professor of agricultural economics and social science unit leader in the College of Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources. He was named chief of staff for the chancellor in 1993, later becoming deputy chancellor. In 1998 he was chosen to serve as provost, MU’s chief academic officer.

Deaton said he was honored that the President chose him. He noted that his appearance in the Tennessee search was recognition of the outstanding progress MU has made in terms of its strategic plan and national reputation—progress that is attributable to outstanding faculty, staff, students and alumni support. “Since I am involved in the UT search, I must respect the completion of that process,” Deaton said. “But that in no way diminishes my commitment to and pride in MU.”

Floyd solicited written nominations from the campus community before deciding to offer the interim chancellorship to Deaton. If Deaton accepts the position of interim chancellor, he will officially assume his new duties effective Sept. 1, 2004, succeeding Chancellor Richard Wallace, who will retire Aug. 31, 2004.

Floyd intends to appoint a committee to begin a search for a permanent chancellor. Floyd said he would like to have a permanent chancellor identified by the end of the year.