U-M-Flint promotes two vice chancellors

U-M-Flint Chancellor Juan E. Mestas has announced the appointments of Mary Jo Sekelsky, vice chancellor for student services and enrollment management, and Kristen Skivington, vice chancellor for institutional advancement, to his senior management team. The Board of Regents approved their appointments Sept. 15.

Sekelsky (Photo courtesy U-M-Flint)

Sekelsky joined U-M-Flint in 1984 as an academic advisor. Since then, she has held several managerial positions, including student activities coordinator, assistant director for student activities and orientation, director of student life, dean for student services, and assistant vice chancellor for student services and enrollment management.

She became interim vice chancellor last year when Virginia Allen retired.

Sekelsky earned a bachelor of arts degree in psychology from Michigan State University, a master of arts in guidance and counseling from Oakland University, and a doctorate in education from Wayne State University.

"Student Services and Enrollment Management takes the lead in the very important areas of enrollment growth, retention support and student life, among others," Mestas says. "With Mary Jo at the helm, I feel quite confident that her division will perform effectively, efficiently and with great enthusiasm."

Skivington joined U-M-Flint in 1986 as an assistant professor in the School of Management. Five years later she became director of graduate and executive development management programs. She held administrative positions of increased responsibility before becoming executive director of University outreach and assistant to the chancellor. As the University prepared to launch its capital campaign earlier this year, Skivington assumed the duties of vice chancellor for institutional advancement on an interim basis.

Skivington (Photo courtesy U-M-Flint)

"Her performance was so impressive that I appointed her to that position permanently," Mestas says. "These are all critical areas for the University, particularly so as we engage in a concerted effort to raise $30 million dollars by 2008. Kristen's leadership is a major reason for my confidence that we will rise to the very high expectations we have set for ourselves."

Among the offices and functions under her supervision are University Relations, University Outreach, Annual Giving and Alumni Relations and Development.

Skivington received her bachelor of arts degree from the Oregon College of Education, a master's degree from the University of Hawaii and her doctoral degree in management from Texas A&M University.