The University of Minnesota (U of M) Board of Regents voted unanimously Tuesday to make Joan T.A. Gabel the U's 17th President, and the first woman to lead the university.
Gabel was the only finalist to replace outgoing U of M President Eric Kaler. She is currently Provost at the University of South Carolina. Regents also approved a proposed contract which is said to involve a 5-year term through June 30, 2024 at an annual salary of $640,000.
“I have known for a while now that the University of Minnesota is where my family and I want to be,” said Gabel. “But after traveling across this state, meeting so many people who love the University and seeing how our research, teaching and service have real impact here and beyond, I’m even more excited to join this community and I’m honored to be named the next President of the University of Minnesota.
Gabel will officially begin her duties on July 1.
“President-Designate Gabel stood out from a highly competitive pool of candidates that advanced through a thorough and thoughtful search process. Her qualifications, combined with her warmth, energy and her genuine engagement with students, faculty, staff and others are proof that she will make an outstanding President,” said David McMillan, chair of the Board of Regents in a statement released by the U of M.
During a recent visit to campus Gabel commented on the possibility of becoming the first woman in the U of M's top spot. "This University has not had a woman president before, and I think it is delightful that that may change," Gabel said, as she addressed a crowd of students, alumni and staff inside Coffman Union last week. "But, I think what's also important is, what do you do once you're in the job?"