Zdatny to step down by the end of the year
The following are emails sent by VTSU Chancellor Sophie Zdatny and outgoing Interim President Mike Smith regarding Zdatny’s decision to step down.
I have shared with the Board of Trustees of the Vermont State Colleges System my intention to step down at the end of the cal- endar year. This was a difficult, but personal, decision for me. I started at the Vermont State Col- leges System nine years ago in a different role and in a different organization. The changes of the system and its institutions over the last several years have been remarkable and we have much to be proud of.
It’s been a tremendous honor to lead VSCS over the last three years. I’m appreciative of the work we’ve undertaken together to stabilize the organization and to ensure that public higher edu- cation remains accessible and af- fordable in Vermont’s rural com- munities for generations to come. I know we all share those goals and it’s been my pleasure to work together with you as we’ve moved them forward.
I am grateful to each of you for your tireless work and commitment over the last three-and-a-half years. You make the Vermont State Colleges a wonderful place to work and to learn, and I thank you for your partnership and dedication to our students.
In the coming weeks, the Board will announce a hiring process for the new Chancellor. I look for- ward to working with you, the Board, and the new leadership on a smooth transition to ensure the next phase of transformation is successful.
With gratitude, Sophie
As you know, Chancellor Zdat- ny will step down at the end of December. I want to acknowledge and express our collective ap- preciation for Chancellor Sophie Zdatny’s immeasurable dedication and contributions to higher educa- tion in Vermont.
Sophie stepped up to become chancellor during a time of great turmoil for the Vermont State Colleges system. She brought a steady hand, strategic vision, and kindness to the role. Throughout her tenure, she has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to our students and to preserving and transforming higher education in Vermont and elevating the importance of the Vermont State College system with state leaders.
Thank you, Chancellor Zdatny, for your steadfast dedication to the Vermont State University commu- nity and the cause of higher educa- tion. It’s been a great pleasure to work with you during my short time as Interim President to further our shared goals.
Thank you to all of you for your devoted service to Vermont State University.
Warmly, Mike
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