University of Albania President John R. Loyak (left) and Senior Vice-Chancellor Dr. Glynis A. Fitzgerald (right) cut the ribbon at the opening of the John R. Post Center in September 2021.
Loyack becomes CEO.Board Name Fitzgerald President-Elect
After four years of unprecedented growth in recruitment, academic programs and community partnerships, Alvernia’s Chancellor, John R. Loyak, transitioned from his role as University Chancellor to CEO, supporting the Chancellor’s transition and leading the University community. and continue our philanthropic activities. The Board of Trustees of the University of Albania approved the transition plan and the senior vice-chancellor and rector appointed Glynis A. Fitzgerald, Ph.D. She is the eighth president and the first female president in over 30 years.
Greg Szemansky, President of the Albania Board of Directors, said: “Despite the challenges posed by the global pandemic, the competitive pressures in higher education, and the ever-changing landscape in higher education, John’s strategic vision is a historic level of resources to support the university’s transformation. and the communities we serve.These resources, partnerships, and support are key to our students and the people we serve for generations. John and Glynis will work closely together to ensure a seamless leadership transition and continue the tremendous transformation of the university and community.Frankly, what John and senior leadership have achieved That is unparalleled in the world of higher education today.”
After becoming the university’s seventh Chancellor in July 2019, Mr. Loyack led efforts to reorganize the university and develop and implement a five-year, student-centered strategic plan, leading the way in Alvernia’s history. inspired an unprecedented transformation in downtown Reading while attracting the largest class in. His President Loyack’s vision for the University’s CollegeTowne initiative paved the way for university expansion in the core cities of Reading, Pottsville, and Pittton, making Alvernia a true regional university. This includes creating new academic programs and opportunities for student life, as well as creating new community his programs, expanding experiential learning for students, redeveloping the economy and facilitating the creation of new businesses. .
“I am truly honored by the opportunity to lead this wonderful university and campus community. I am proud of the transformational progress we have collectively made for the benefit of our students and the communities we serve.” said Loyack. “I have complete confidence that Dr. Fitzgerald will continue this transformation with the support of our incredible senior leadership team. Albania will always have a special place in my heart. and look forward to continuing to actively support the university in its new position.”
Loyack and Fitzgerald have worked together since they arrived at the university in July 2019. Fitzgerald has focused on faculty work and student success throughout the creation of four colleges, serving in his roles as Senior Vice President, Provost, and his Officer of the Supreme Academics. She oversees several other key administrative areas, including information technology and institutional studies.
“John has led with direction and vision during a very tumultuous time in higher education,” said Fitzgerald. “I have seen first-hand how our administrators, faculty, staff, alumni and students make lasting positive change in our communities. We are grateful for the support of our Board of Trustees and Senior Leadership Team to ensure that Alvernia continues its transformative Franciscan mission for future generations in eastern Pennsylvania. .”
Universities undergo national surveys to serve as provosts.
Prior to joining Albania, Fitzgerald served as Vice President for Academic Affairs and Dean of Graduate Studies at Central Connecticut State University. She has developed expertise in undergraduate and graduate program development, expanding online learning options, and community and corporate partnerships. As a veteran faculty member, she was promoted to full professor in the Department of Communications in Central Connecticut, where she also served as Dean.
Fitzgerald holds a Ph.D. in Organizational/Interpersonal Communications and an MS in Organizational Communications from the State University of New York at Buffalo and a BA in Speech Communications from the University of Edinboro, Pennsylvania.
