April 17, 2000

Robert V. Smith, vice provost for research and graduate education and dean of the Graduate School, has announced that he will leave UConn after the end of the semester, to become provost and vice chancellor for academic affairs at the University of Arkansas. He will assume his new duties July 1.

The provost and vice chancellor for academic affairs at the University of Arkansas is the chief academic officer, reporting directly to the chancellor. Reporting to the provost are the deans of eight schools and colleges, as well as the deans of continuing education, university libraries and enrollment services. Other units reporting to the provost are Air Force and Army ROTC, the Teaching and Faculty Support Center, and the offices of institutional research and summer session.

University of Arkansas Chancellor John A. White said he is looking to Smith to provide leadership that will enhance the teaching and research stature of the University; move the university from its current status as a Carnegie Research University II to a Research University I; increase external research funding to $100 million and double the annual budget; and move into the nation's top 50 public universities as ranked by U.S. News & World Report.

"That's why Bob's experience is so relevant to our situation," White said. "The University of Connecticut has been on a fast track to strengthen academic quality and reputation and has had impressive success in recent years. ... Connecticut provides a good model for us."

Smith, whose background includes research and faculty appointments in medicinal chemistry, joined UConn in 1997 from Washington State University. He previously held the post of vice provost for research and dean of Washington State's Graduate School.