Press Release - USM Board of Regents Names Interim Chancellor

February 11, 2002

USM Board of Regents Names Interim Chancellor

Nathan A. Chapman, Jr., chairman of the University System of Maryland (USM) Board of Regents, today announced the appointment of Joseph F. Vivona as interim USM chancellor effective May 1, 2002. Vivona, currently the USM's vice chancellor for administration and finance, will succeed Donald N. Langenberg, who will retire as chancellor on April 30, 2002. Vivona will serve as interim chancellor until Langenberg's permanent successor takes office.

"Joe Vivona is an invaluable member of the USM management team and has earned the respect of the regents, the presidents, and state leaders in Annapolis," said Chapman. "We are fortunate to have someone with his experience and ability to lead the system during this transition period." 

"I'm delighted at the opportunity to serve the system as interim  chancellor," said Vivona. "I look forward to working with my colleagues in this new role. With their help, the USM will continue on the course set by Don Langenberg."

Vivona stated that he would not be a candidate for the position of USM chancellor, which is the subject of a nationwide search. A search and screening committee is reviewing candidates for the position and will forward three to five names to the full board for its consideration. The board has indicated that a new chancellor should be in place by September 1, 2002, the beginning of the new academic year.  .

Vivona, 50, was appointed USM vice chancellor for administration and finance in 1996 after having served as the chief financial officer of the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE). Prior to his DOE service, Vivona was the deputy budget director and deputy comptroller for the state of New Jersey. He was also a vice chancellor at the City University of New York, and an assistant commissioner for the New Jersey Department of Human Services.

Vivona earned his bachelor's degree from St John's University and he did his graduate work at New York University. Vivona and his wife, Barbara, have two children and reside in Chevy Chase, Maryland.

Contact:

Francis Canavan
Phone: 301/445-2722
E-mail: fcanavan@usmd.edu