Casey is new UMC chancellor

Charles Casey (left) and Sam Schuman.

From M, fall 2005

The University of Minnesota, Crookston, is welcoming a new chancellor, while the Morris campus is preparing to say goodbye to its leader of seven years.

As the 2005-06 school year begins, the University of Minnesota, Crookston (UMC), is welcoming a new chancellor, while the Morris campus is preparing to say goodbye to its leader of seven years.

On August 15, the University named Charles Casey as the fourth chancellor at UMC. Casey had been dean and director of the University of Minnesota Extension Service for six and a half years. He led a reorganization that streamlined Extension's offerings to individuals and organizations across the state.

"I'm honored to be asked, and will do my best to serve Crookston," says Casey. "This is a unique opportunity because my wife and I have roots in northwest Minnesota; we care about the future of the region because we live there."

Morris Chancellor Sam Schuman announced his retirement on August 19 at the UMM faculty and staff convocation. Schuman, who has served as interim chancellor and chancellor since 1998 and in senior leadership positions for 11 years, will stay on at the helm through June 2006.

Schuman led the effort to have the Morris campus declared a national historic district and is also credited with helping raise nearly $10 million--close to double UMM's goal--during Campaign Minnesota, the University-wide fund-raising drive.

"I am leaving our college at a time when it is thriving, successful, and looking toward an even brighter future," said Schuman. "The faculty are teachers and scholars without peer; our staff is skilled and committed; our alumni are loyal; our benefactors are caring and dedicated; and UMM students are a magnificent treasure. I will watch with keen attention and modest pride the future strengthening of our college."