Author: Sarah Dunlap
Originally projected to return to Occidental in July, Dean of Students Kenyon Chan has opted instead to start anew at the University of Washington-Bothell (UWB), if given approval by the UW Board of Regents. Chan, who served as the interim college President for the 2005-2006 academic year, will begin a new career July 1 as the Chancellor of Bothell, the newest of three campuses within the University of Washington. Chan will be replacing Steven G. Olswang, who served as the UWB Chancellor since July 2005.
As the Dean of Students and the Vice President for Academic Affairs at Oxy, Chan oversaw academic matters that included faculty, students, curriculum and academic planning. Currently on sabbatical, Chan once planned to resume his work at Occidental. “My intention was to return to Oxy in July, but I was invited to apply for the Chancellor position at the University of Washington, Bothell,” Chan said.
At UWB, which is both a graduate and undergraduate institution, Chan will earn $205,700 per year, and his responsibilities will have a broader scope. “At Oxy [. . .] I am responsible for all academic matters including faculty, curriculum, student affairs, academic planning and much more,” he said. “As Chancellor of UWB, I will be the chief executive officer responsible for everything. It’s a bigger challenge in a wonderful location.”
Chan told The Seattle Times that he is “very excited” about his new job and that he appreciates the chance to be Chancellor at UWB, a relatively young institution. “There are not very many opportunities to lead such a young university in such a vibrant part of the country,” he told the Times.
University of Washington President Mark A. Emmert touted Chan’s abilities both as an educator and an administrator upon the selection.
“Kenyon Chan is a gifted educator and leader, and we are very fortunate to have found him. He brings exceptional leadership skills to the University, along with a natural affinity for innovation and a great deal of enthusiasm. Growing our programs at Bothell is a perfect match for his talents, and I look forward to having him on board. We expect great things from him and UW-Bothell,” Emmert said in a UWB press release.
UW Provost Phyllis Wise had similar words regarding Chan’s credentials and said she has high hopes for his ability in education and community building. Northwest Asian Weekly reported her comments. “He’s incredibly qualified, […] highly competent, very dedicated [and] a warm individual. I think he will bring the community together,” Wise said.
Though Chan anticipates his new position in the Pacific Northwest, he expressed “deep thanks” to Oxy students and recalled his time at the college fondly.
“I will miss the extraordinary students at Oxy,” Chan said. “I enjoyed talking and working with students across the campus. I will miss the first-rate faculty and staff. And, of course, I will miss the beautiful Oxy campus.”
This article has been archived, for more requests please contact us via the support system.
