10
November
2021
|
09:28 AM
America/Chicago

Message from UHD President Loren J. Blanchard: Thank You, Johanna Wolfe

UHD President Loren J. Blanchard

Dear UHD Community:

Please join me in applauding Johanna Wolfe, Vice President of Advancement and University Relations, for her service to the University of Houston-Downtown. She made the decision to retire several months ago, and she graciously extended her departure until December. Now the time has come to begin wishing her farewell as she closes her final months of dedication to UHD and to the University of Houston System.

Originally earning her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in music, Johanna has transitioned into non-profit management and development within higher education, healthcare and the arts. She has worked with UHD for more than a decade in her current position, following more than 15 years in various advancement roles at the University of Houston.

During her tenure at UHD, Johanna has provided leadership in the planning, coordination and execution of strategic initiatives to enhance the University’s visibility, and she has overseen all components of our fundraising operations. The "UHD Here, We Go" campaign was initiated during Johanna’s leadership. The campaign raised over $32 million toward its $25 million fundraising goal, including the largest gift in the University’s history — to name the Marilyn Davies College of Business.

She has also played a major role in guiding marketing, media relations and communications efforts aimed at enhancing our reputation, enrollment growth and fundraising.

Her steady direction, reassuring foresight and friendly demeanor have benefited UHD in countless ways. On a personal note, she has provided immeasurable support during my time as President. I wish her well, and I know that many of you echo my sentiments.

A search committee is forming to identify her successor. This activity complements two other searches already in progress as the University seeks its next Provost/Senior Vice President for Academic and Student Affairs as well as Vice President for Administration and Finance. More updates on these searches will be shared soon.

In the meantime, please take a moment to thank Johanna for her service to our University. Her contributions to UHD have been invaluable, and I speak for all faculty, staff, students and alumni when I wish her the best in her well-deserved retirement.

Sincerely,

Loren J. Blanchard, Ph.D.
President, University of Houston-Downtown