Big news from the world of academia as the University of Minnesota taps a new executive vice president and provost: Gretchen Ritter was announced for the role and, come this July, will be steering the academic helm of the University, pending the green light from the Board of Regents in June. According to the University of Minnesota's announcement, Ritter will take on the chief academic responsibilities across the institution's system with a particular emphasis on the Twin Cities campus.
University of Minnesota President Rebecca Cunningham heralded Ritter's approach to education, "Dr. Ritter brings an impressive set of credentials that combine a strong academic and research background with a history of administrative leadership. She has a demonstrated commitment to working with faculty and shared governance." Ritter herself relayed her eagerness to contribute to the University of Minnesota's storied academic tradition to the same publication.
The selection process wasn't a walk in the park; Ritter emerged as the chosen leader after what was described as a highly competitive national search and thorough vetting by stakeholder groups, which included faculty governance leaders among other university community members. Currently serving as the vice president for civic engagement and education at Syracuse University, Ritter has a track record with several prestigious universities in her portfolio.
With a scholarly background that includes studies on the U.S. Constitution, democracy, and women's citizenship, Ritter holds a doctorate from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and a bachelor's degree from Cornell University. In her upcoming role at the University of Minnesota, she will oversee faculty promotions, academic program approvals, and push for the growth of not just the Twin Cities campus, but across the university system, Ritter told the University of Minnesota publication.
Ritter's tenure is set to begin on July 31, and she will also be a critical part of President Cunningham's cabinet and executive team. It's expected that her impact on the University will start resonating well before the start of the fall semester, as she gears up to lead and energize academic pursuits across the University's broader community.
