On June 21, 2023, University of Minnesota Executive Vice President and Provost Rachel T.A. Croson announced that Laurie Van Egeren has been appointed the University's new vice provost for public engagement, effective October 23, 2023. As vice provost for public engagement, Van Egeran will serve as the University's systemwide chief engagement officer with direct oversight of the University's public engagement agenda and Office For Public Engagement.
Van Egeren’s appointment is the culmination of a national search for a successor to former Associate Vice Provost for Public Engagement Andrew Furco, who returned to the College of Education and Human Development faculty in 2022 after serving in the role since 2008. Professor Furco's departure was followed by the interim appointment of College of Education and Human Development Associate Professor and former Executive Director of the University's Urban Research and Outreach-Engagement Center Heidi Barajas.
Learn more.
Search Updates
- June 21: University of Minnesota Executive Vice President and Provost Rachel T.A. Croson's vice provost for public engagement appointment announcement
- May 5: University of Minnesota Executive Vice President and Provost Rachel T.A. Croson's search update with candidate schedule
- February 10: University of Minnesota Executive Vice President and Provost Rachel T.A. Croson's announcement
- December 7: Search committee nominations due
- December 6, 12: Pre-search listening sessions
- November 29: University of Minnesota Executive Vice President and Provost Rachel T.A. Croson's announcement
For questions about the search process, contact: [email protected].
About OPE
The University of Minnesota Office for Public Engagement (OPE) is a national leader in advancing community-engaged research, teaching, and outreach that address the most pressing issues of our time. OPE builds and supports infrastructure throughout the University’s five-campus system that promotes deep, mutually beneficial partnerships for scholars, students, and communities throughout Minnesota and beyond.
About UMN
The University of Minnesota is one of the most comprehensive public university systems in the nation, with its five campuses offering more than 300 degrees/majors and academic programs to 68,600 students each year. Designated Minnesota's land-grant university, the University is dedicated to world-class education, groundbreaking research, and a commitment to partnering with communities in Minnesota and beyond.