Central Welcomes New Interim VP for Universty Relations

April 24, 2008

ELLENSBURG, Wash. - Dr. Ellen W. Hall will join the Central Washington University executive team as the new interim vice president for university relations on May 7, 2008. With more than 30 years of professional experience in higher education, Hall's extensive background in strategic planning, diversity initiatives, fund development, building enrollment and retention, improving academic quality, faculty support and many other aspects of executive and academic college administration made her the right person for the job.

"Dr. Hall received strong support from members of the University Relations Division as well as from others who met with her during her campus interview," says CWU President Jerilyn S. McIntyre. "Her extensive background at all levels of higher education administration as well as her skill in team-building, communication and planning convinced everyone that she was the right candidate for the position."

A self-described people person, Hall says she likes to get into a situation and improve it. "I am very enthusiastic about coming to Central to become Interim Vice President for University Relations," explains Hall. "Working with alumni, public relations, development and the foundation board allows all of us to support the distinctive educational opportunities for students at CWU. I am looking forward to working with President McIntyre, her administration and all of the staff in these areas."

Dr. Hall's professional career in higher education began in 1973 at Westminster College in New Wilmington, Pa., where she served as assistant dean of the college and was a professor of French. Through the years she served in various administrative roles in higher education at different colleges and universities including serving as dean of the college at Agnes Scott College in Atlanta, Ga., as president of Converse College in Spartanburg, S.C., from 1989-93 and as vice president of academic affairs and dean of the college at Wells College in Aurora, N.Y., from 1995-2006. Hall received her bachelor's degree in French from Agnes Scott College and her master's and doctorate degrees from Bryn Mawr College in Bryn Mawr, Pa.

In her new position at Central, Hall will oversee development, public relations and marketing, alumni relations, publications, and the CWU Foundation.

Media Contact: Teri Olin, CWU Public Relations & Marketing, olint@cwu.edu, 509-963-1416

Central Washington University is a master's degree-granting institution with approximately 10,000 students and 1,500 faculty and staff. More than 160 undergraduate and master's degrees are offered. Founded in 1891, the Ellensburg campus is located in the heart of Washington State, nestled between the Cascade Mountains and the Columbia River. Since 1975, CWU has served the needs of place bound students at six university centers throughout the state. CWU is an AA/EEO Title IX Institution.