Wilmington, DE – Governor Markell issued the following statement today in response to the announcement that Nancy Targett, dean of the College of Earth, Ocean, and Environment, will serve as interim president of the University of Delaware, effective July 1:

“Dean Targett is an excellent choice to lead the University during this time of transition. As a member of my transition team when I was first elected Governor, Nancy offered valuable input and advice. In the years since, the State has called upon Dean Targett for her expertise on issues impacting Delawareans, including how to combat climate change and addressing conservation efforts.

“She is recognized and respected nationally as an expert in her field, but more importantly, she has developed a reputation in Delaware as a dedicated leader, with a deep understanding of the important link between the University and the state. I look forward to working with her in her new role.”

Addressing the efforts of the search committee, Governor Markell said: 

“The members of the Presidential Search Committee, co-chaired by Terri Kelly and Don Puglisi, represent the varied, important connections between the University and the greater Delaware community. Though diverse in their association to the University, they share a unified focus in selecting a president who will build on the tremendous progress achieved during President Harker’s tenure, which helped to strengthen Delaware’s economy and grow our workforce. I am confident the committee will be successful in achieving this goal.”

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