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Neidhardt named interim research VP

Frederick Neidhardt, associate vice president for research, will add his name to the list of University officials who will soon hold interim positions. Neidhardt will step into the role of vice president for research July 1.

Homer Neal, who currently holds this position, will assume the role of University interim president on this day.

Neidhardt will remain in the position until Neal returns to the post, the day the new University president takes over.

"Both Dr. Neal and I feel this would provide strong continuity," University President James Duderstadt told the Board of Regents at Friday's meeting.

Neidhardt said he is looking forward to continuing to work with Neal.

"I came here to work with him because I was excited about his program and elected the opportunity to work with him on it," Neidhardt said about his decision to join the administration 2 1/2 years ago. "I am happy he will be the interim president."

Neidhardt said the transition will be easy since he has worked in the research office -- and with Neal -- since 1993.

"We share similar views on things," he said. "We don't want the University to be on hold during this time. We can't just suspend the important initiatives until a new president is chosen."

Neal said Neidhardt was an appropriate choice. "He is a very respected member fo the faculty and an extremely valued colleague," he said.

Regent Rebecca McGowan (D-Ann Arbor) also supported the decision to appoint Neidhardt.

"I have been very much aware of the amazing role he has played," she said. "I look forward to welcoming him to the table in July."

Neidhardt also said he is ready to begin. "I am well aware of the challenges and the opportunities the field of research has," he said. "I will be ready on July 1."