January 13, 2009

Upon the recommendation of the Provost’s Search Committee, a careful analysis of your feedback, and an independent review of all the candidates, I am pleased to announce the selection of Dr. John Antel, Dean of the UH College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences (CLASS), as Provost and Senior Vice President of the University of Houston and Senior Vice Chancellor of the University of Houston System. His appointment will be ratified by the Board of Regents at its next meeting. Following that meeting, we will hold a celebratory reception for the UH community.

The Search Committee did an extraordinary job of bringing forward four outstanding candidates. I feel that John’s passion for student success, knowledge of the institution, and “can do” attitude are the best fit for UH and UHS. He has successfully led CLASS since 2002, doubling its research, increasing enrollment, and strengthening programs of excellence. He is a health economist by training and has expanded his wings to support arts and sciences with equal enthusiasm. It became apparent during the search process that he is well respected by students, faculty, administrators, and community leaders. With the slowing economy, increasing global competition for faculty talent, greater need to support students, and an ever-demanding environment for conducting research, the job of the chief academic officer is more challenging than ever. I ask you to offer your full support to assure John’s success as provost for the benefit of all of us.

Let me take this opportunity to thank Interim Provost Jerry Strickland for stepping in and serving the University in an outstanding manner. He has been a great colleague, a trusted adviser, and a focused administrator during his term as interim provost. Please join me in wishing Jerry all the best as he transitions back to his previous position of guiding our international efforts.

I would also like to thank Professor David Francis and the members of the Search Committee for their leadership in every aspect of this outstanding search. It has taken many hours of dedicated work, and the university community is very appreciative of their efforts.

Warm regards,

Renu Khator
Chancellor/President
University of Houston