Dear Colleagues,
I write to let you know that Richard Gray – after a career that has spanned more than 40 years, including the last six here at UConn – recently let me know that he intends to step down as Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer on April 30, 2014.
While I am happy for Rich, I am sorry that UConn is losing such an outstanding leader. Since 2008, Rich has very effectively guided the financial course of the university through one difficult budget year after another, and all the while he has allowed us to advance our highest priorities and protect our academic core from painful cuts. Thanks to his financial acumen, UConn has continued to grow and thrive, even as our resources have become more limited or remained stagnant. That is a testament to Rich and his terrific team.
While none of us are indispensable, it is always a challenge to lose an individual with the skills and talents that Rich possesses and he will certainly be missed.
In the coming weeks, I will announce a committee that will undertake a national search to identify his successor. I have also asked John Biancamano, who recently retired as Chief Financial Officer at the UConn Health Center, to oversee this transition and serve in the interim role beginning May 1. Until then, John will work closely with Rich to manage both day-to-day leadership functions and engage in long-term strategic planning to help ensure a smooth transition process.
Please join me in thanking Rich for his tireless service to the University of Connecticut and all of its students, faculty and staff. I know I speak for all of his colleagues when I wish him all the best; we look forward to recognizing and celebrating his time at UConn in the weeks ahead.
Sincerely,
Susan Herbst
For more information, contact: Office of the President at president@uconn.edu