Jim Griffith has been named the University of Victoria's executive director of external relations. He is responsible for the university's community relations, alumni relations and development activities.
Griffith has 32 years of experience in university administration, most recently as executive director of UVic student and ancillary services-a position he had held since 1989. Before coming to UVic, Griffith work in student services at the University of Prince Edward Island.
"One of my main goals is to build the university's image as a resource for the entire community," said Griffith. "I would also like to see alumni more involved in their university. Almost half of our 45,000 alumni live within driving distance of campus."
Among his responsibilities will be to oversee the university's key fundraising projects: McPherson Library improvements, construction of a new child care centre, and enhanced funding for undergraduate entrance scholarships.
The chair of the UVic board of governors, Brian Lamb, said that after a national search it became clear that Griffith was best-suited for the position. "Jim has impressed so many of the people he has worked with at UVic. His organizational skills and strategic alliance experience were other attributes that make him an excellent choice."
While at student and ancillary services, Griffith negotiated the university's
corporate strategic alliance agreements and trademark licensing contracts.
Griffith had been acting executive director of external relations since
July.