Massanelli Named To UA Government Affairs Post

The University of Arkansas announced today that Randy Massanelli, state director for U.S. Senator Mark Pryor, has been named vice chancellor for governmental relations, effective July 1.

The post is currently held by Richard Hudson, who is retiring on July 31.

The vice chancellor for governmental relations coordinates University of Arkansas activities related to government organizations on a local, state and federal level and works with civic organizations and the state and congressional delegations in Arkansas and Washington, D.C.

“Randy comes to us highly regarded, with a strong track record of accomplishment working with all levels of government and all political parties,” UA Chancellor David Gearhart said. “His experience with Arkansas politics will help us not only continue, but deepen, our relationships with our state lawmakers.”

Gearhart added, “My charge to the search committee was to find someone who could not only foster good relations with elected officials at the local, state and federal level, but who would also be effective in making the case and building support for our institutional priorities. The committee advanced three incredibly qualified finalists, each with strong credentials and experience. It was a close race and at the end of the day, Randy edged out the others with his federal government experience. Richard’s are big shoes to fill, and I’m confident Randy will ensure a smooth transition.”

There were two other finalists for the position:

• Mac Campbell, a former aide to Sen. Blanche Lincoln and deputy staff director of the U.S. Senate Finance Committee.
• Sen. Johnny Key (R-Mountain Home), who served in the Arkansas House of Representatives from 2003-2009 and in the state Senate since 2009.

Massanelli has served as state director for U.S. Sen. Mark Pryor since 2002.