Mortimer H. Neufville Named Interim President of University of Maryland Eastern Shore

Adelphi, Md. (May 31, 2011) -- William E. Kirwan, chancellor of the University System of Maryland, has appointed Mortimer H. Neufville, Ph.D., former executive vice president with the Association of Public and Land-grant Universities (APLU) and current APLU consultant, as interim president of the University of Maryland Eastern Shore (UMES). His appointment to the interim position is effective August 16, 2011.

The appointment of Neufville follows UMES President Thelma B. Thompson's announcement earlier this spring that she will retire as president, effective August 15, 2011. Neufville will serve as interim president until Thompson's successor is named and joins UMES during the upcoming academic year.

Neufville held a number of positions at UMES from 1983 through 1996, including vice president for academic affairs.

"I am very pleased that Dr. Neufville has accepted this appointment," said Chancellor Kirwan. "I am confident that his experience and success in higher education and his long history with UMES will serve the university quite well during this transition period."

Neufville received his Ph.D. and M.S. degrees in animal science from the University of Florida. In 2001, he was awarded the Honorary Doctor of Science degree from Tuskegee University, from which he earned his B.S. degree. The University of Florida honored him with its Distinguished Alumnus Award in December 2001. He held several prominent positions during his 14 years at UMES in addition to vice president for academic affairs, including dean of agricultural sciences and research director.

"UMES has been experiencing tremendous growth over the past few years. My intent is to continue to facilitate a positive learning environment that will ensure the advancement of this fine university," Neufville said. "My priorities would include also enhancing the academic programs that UMES has recently launched, such as the engineering and pharmacy programs."

Chancellor Kirwan in April appointed the search and screening committee for the new president of UMES. Chaired by UMES Alumnus Alfonso N. Cornish, vice president for education and development and chief learning officer for Norton Healthcare, the committee members have already begun their work. The committee will conclude its efforts with the recommendation of finalists for consideration by the chancellor and the USM Board of Regents. The board will make the final appointment.

Contact: Mike Lurie
Phone: 301.445.2719
Email: mlurie@usmd.edu