“Dr. Betz has been an extraordinary asset to this university,” U. President Michael K. Young said, “Fortunately, he has agreed to remain actively involved until a new senior vice president can be recruited.” Young indicated a committee is being assembled to search for Betz’s replacement. Historically, a successful search for a senior-level administrator with health care and higher education experience may take up to a year.

“We join with President Young in expressing our deep appreciation for all that Dr. Betz has accomplished, and for his continued work during the upcoming year,” said Randy Dryer, president of the university’s board of trustees. “I am confident that the standards Lorris has set will enable us to attract a strong pool of candidates.”

The search committee will be drawn from the university’s health sciences, and from its Council of Academic Deans, department chairs from the School of Medicine, healthcare faculty and students, and from community boards associated with the U. Young indicated campus and community members also will be invited to meet with candidates and offer their perspective and feedback.

“The university has been on a remarkable trajectory over the past several years,” Young said. “Thanks in some large measure to Lorris’ great leadership, health sciences has been a significant part of that momentum. I look forward to working closely with him throughout this transition period to keep that extraordinary momentum going.”