Oct. 30, 2008

Statement by President Pastides on Mark Becker

I extend my congratulations to Dr. Mark Becker on his appointment as Georgia State's new president, and I wish him the very best as he prepares to lead that fine institution.

Since joining the university as executive vice president for academic affairs and provost in 2004, Mark has been a vital member of the administration. He has overseen the development of the Faculty Excellence Initiative, the creation of the Arts Institute and the recruitment of outstanding faculty who are highly respected in their fields. Under his leadership, the quality of our faculty has become even stronger, and scholarly productivity has increased.

Serving with Mark has been an honor and a privilege and, as vice president and as president, I have found his judgment and insights to be impeccable, his counsel to be wise, and his experience invaluable.

I have asked Dr. William T. (Ted) Moore to serve as provost for the duration of this academic year; I will have more information on a search for this position after consulting with the faculty. Dr. Moore's position as vice president for planning will not be filled at the present time but he will continue to oversee our Focus Carolina strategic planning process. I have the utmost confidence that he will do an outstanding job as he assumes additional responsibilities.