Keep the Positive Momentum
Interim Chancellor Jan Simek focuses on continued progress
Jan Simek is concentrating on sustaining UT’s positive momentum since he stepped in for Dr. Loren Crabtree, who resigned the chancellor position early this year.
Simek formerly was Crabtree’s chief of staff. He is a distinguished professor of anthropology and former interim dean of the College of Architecture and Design. Simek said that among the interim chancellor’s many challenges, the most significant is to ensure that progress is maintained. “I am honored to have been given this opportunity, and I am proud to be a part of this campus,” he said. “As the university’s flagship campus and premier research institution, UT Knoxville occupies a unique and critical role in the state’s success.”
He said it’s essential to “sustain the momentum we’ve already achieved in strengthening research and academic programs and attracting and graduating students. I will do all I can to keep that positive momentum going, and with the help of our alumni, I’m confident we can meet that goal.” The interim chancellor said following Crabtree would not be easy. “Dr. Crabtree’s leadership and his inclusive approach to problem solving set a high standard. He provided leadership through several critical years at UT, and we appreciate his contributions and steadfast commitment.”
In a joint statement Jan. 3, UT President John Petersen and Crabtree announced the chancellor’s resignation, saying they “shared common goals for the university and for the Knoxville campus,” but that they had “differing philosophies in the area of governance.” “We agree it is time to put those differences aside in the interest of best enabling the university to continue to take advantage of unprecedented opportunities and success in key research and academic areas,” the statement said.
Crabtree was at UT for seven years, beginning as provost and later becoming chancellor. He said he was proud of the progress during that time, “particularly the improvements in the quality of our students and our faculty and staff. I believe this campus is positioned to become one of the best public universities in the nation. I am happy to have been a part of that progress.”
Simek said he too feels “great pride and passion” for the university. “I ask for the support of our alumni during this transitional period as we continue the progress we’ve been making in key areas of student access and success, diversity, global and intercultural awareness, and in enhancing the quality of our programs and the student experience. “I know our alumni will do everything they can to make UT an even greater university,” he said. “They are enthusiastic and committed, and I look forward to their input.”
A search committee, composed of representatives from major UT constituencies including alumni, is at work to recommend a permanent chancellor. Simek said he hopes to return to teaching and probably will not be a candidate for the job.