Top UA Fundraiser Resigns

University of Arkansas Chancellor Joseph Steinmetz announced Monday that Chris Wyrick, vice chancellor of university advancement, will step down from his position effective immediately. Wyrick was appointed to the job April 1, 2013, after serving from 2008 to 2011 as senior associate athletic director for Razorback Athletics and then serving as the executive director of the Razorback Foundation in 2012.

Steinmetz has appointed Mark Power, associate vice chancellor for development, as interim vice chancellor of university advancement, effective immediately. Power has worked in development at the university in a variety of capacities since 2001.

“The timing of this change was important because we are facing a critical milestone in our capital campaign with the upcoming public launch,” Steinmetz said. “I would like to thank Chris for his service to the University of Arkansas and the division of university advancement. I have enormous confidence in the entire advancement team to carry forth the vision of creating an energetic and inclusive experience to formally kick-off this significant fundraising endeavor.

“Campaign Arkansas is strong and will continue to thrive on the generosity of Razorbacks around the world and on our dedicated and passionate staff.”

“It has been an honor to serve as the vice chancellor of advancement through the quiet phase on Campaign Arkansas,” Wyrick said. “As the university moves into its launch this fall, I am excited to watch its progress and see the great results that the campaign’s success bring. I leave the position with enthusiasm for the future and wish the entire Razorback family the absolute best.” 

The division of university advancement promotes the accomplishments of the university to a wide variety of constituents and raises private gift support for the university’s programs.

Campaign Arkansas was launched in a quiet phase in 2013 to raise $1 billion in private gift support for the UA.

The public launch of the campaign is expected later this year.