Advancement news
Dr. Randy Edwards, who has served as the Chancellor’s Chief of Staff for the past two years, has been appointed Interim Vice Chancellor for Advancement following Susan Pettyjohn’s retirement last month. Pettyjohn served as vice chancellor for nine years.
In his position, he will oversee development operations, the Appalachian State University Foundation, Inc., and Alumni Affairs and Annual Giving.
Before his tenure as Chief of Staff, Edwards was dean of the Walker College of Business for nine years, was chair of the Department of Accounting for 13 years, and first joined the business faculty in 1981. He has a Bachelor of Science and a Master of Science degree in accounting from Appalachian and a Ph.D. from the University of Tennessee. Prior to working in higher education, Edwards was an auditor for Ernst & Ernst, now Ernst & Young.
Edwards said he is honored to step in to this position at such a critical time for the university. “We have just begun major construction on the new Beaver College of Health Sciences which presents exceptional giving opportunities. We are also moving toward millennial campus status which will open the door to public/private collaboration and innovation,” Edwards said. “Support from the Appalachian community — leadership, alumni, faculty, staff and students — is essential if we are to continue to build our resources for scholarships and professorships. The Advancement team is skilled and motivated. I am excited about what we can accomplish.”
For giving opportunities visit: http://give.appstate.edu
Dr. Randy Edwards
“His ability to guide and motivate staff, his broad and deep institutional knowledge and his balanced leadership style will make this transition an easy one. I expect great things from Randy and his team.”
– Chancellor Sheri N. Everts
