President Cozzetto Steps Down

June 6, 2008
After nearly two years as the University of Northern British Columbia’s fourth president, Don Cozzetto has stepped down from the position, effective immediately.

“There were many reasons behind Dr. Cozzetto’s personal decision to step 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 Randall will assume the additional responsibility of Acting President until July 1, when he will be replaced by new Provost, Dr. Mark Dale, who will be coming to UNBC from the University of Alberta. Dr. Cozzetto will return to the United States, where he spent 18 years before joining UNBC.

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

The Board of Governors is scheduled to meet later this month. In addition to selecting a new Chair and approving the 2008-09 operating budget, the Board will consider the appointment of an Acting President for the period following July 1 and the process for selecting UNBC’s next President.

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