June 11, 2009

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Jeff Fanter
Vice President, Communications and Marketing
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Chancellor Mark Keen Stepping Down
at Ivy Tech Community College-Northeast

Ivy Tech Community College’s Mark A. Keen announced his resignation as Chancellor of the Northeast region today citing personal reasons.

Keen released the following statement:  “At this time I need to step away from my role at Ivy Tech Community College to spend time with my family.  I recently lost my mother and my father is battling health issues and I need to be there for him and others in my family.  This decision was not an easy one to make but I do know it is the right one.  I want to thank Ivy Tech for the support it has provided to me and I look forward to spending time with my family and friends.”

Keen was named the region’s Chancellor in January 2006. Prior to his appointment as Chancellor he served the region in a variety of positions over a span of more than 25 years, including Dean of Academic Affairs for nearly 12 years. Before becoming the academic dean, Keen was the Technology Division Chairperson for five years, the Automated Manufacturing Program Chairperson for three years, a full-time Electronics program faculty member, and an adjunct instructor with Ivy Tech. 

“We are committed to continuing to develop the important relationships that Mark has established in the Ft. Wayne and surrounding areas,”  President Thomas J. Snyder said.  “Mark has been a part of the Ivy Tech family for many years in a variety of different positions and he has been instrumental in the growing support that we have seen in the Ft. Wayne community and deserves nothing but thanks for his efforts as a member of the Ivy Tech team.”

Vice Chancellor of Academic Affairs Russell Baker, has been named the region’s interim Chancellor effective immediately.  A national search will be conducted for a full-time chancellor in the coming months.

“Russ and the leadership team at the Northeast region will ensure a smooth transition for the nearly 10,000 students that they serve,”  Senior Vice President and Provost Donald Doucette said.  “Together they will connect with our community leaders to make sure we are providing the services and training that has always and will continue to be expected of Ivy Tech Community College.”