Former Fairbanks (Alaska) Memorial Hospital executive Mike Powers has been named interim chancellor of University of Alaska Fairbanks.
Here are four things to know about Mr. Powers.
1. On Sept. 1, Mr. Powers will take over for Chancellor Brian Rogers, who announced plans to retire in April.
2. Mr. Powers acknowledged that he may be an unconventional pick for interim chancellor, given that he lacks an extensive academic background. However, he is confident moving forward. "As a (University of Alaska) Regent since 2011 I have been deeply involved in the details of the University of Alaska Fairbanks issues," he said in a prepared statement. "I've also had a long and productive association with UAF in my business and community roles during the 30 years I've lived in Fairbanks. Now I look forward to enriching my overall understanding of UAF's many programs."
2. As interim chancellor, Mr. Powers will help the new president launch a search for the permanent chancellor, a process that could take up to a year. He also will provide leadership to UAF.
3. Mr. Powers has been an executive at Fairbanks Memorial Hospital for nearly 30 years, first as CFO and as CEO for the past 20 years. He retired from FMH July 1.
4. While at Fairbanks Memorial, Mr. Powers oversaw the building of the Denali Center, a comprehensive short- and long-term care facility located next to FMH. He also oversaw the building of the J. Michael Carroll Cancer Treatment Center, the Fairbanks Imaging Center, the new emergency department and the Harry and Sally Porter Heart & Vascular Center.
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