Welch named American Association of State Colleges Chair-elect

The American Association of State Colleges and Universities Board of Directors has selected Dr. Chuck Welch, president of the Arkansas State University System in Little Rock, as its Chair-elect.

Welch, who will become chair of the national organization in 2020, was first elected to the AASCU Board of Directors in November 2016. AASCU is a Washington, D.C.-based higher education association of more than 400 public colleges, universities, and systems whose members share a learning- and teaching-centered culture, a historic commitment to underserved student populations, and a dedication to research and creativity that advances their regions’ economic progress and cultural development.

“It is an honor to welcome Dr. Welch as Chair-elect 2019 of our AASCU Board,” said Dr. Mildred Garcia, president of AASCU. “His wisdom, expertise and leadership will be of great benefit to the AASCU institutions that are delivering American’s promise.”

Welch will succeed F. Javier Cevallos, president of Framingham State University in Massachusetts, who will serve as Chair in 2019.

“I’m honored to serve this outstanding organization,” Welch said. “I look forward to working with my fellow presidents and chancellors as we advance higher education. I’ve been an active member of this professional association during my seven years with ASU and previously while at Henderson State. Our members benefit from discussing common opportunities and challenges, and we serve as an important national voice for higher education.”

Welch became president of the ASU System in April 2011. He is chairman of the board of the Arkansas Association of Public Universities, as well as co-chair of the executive council of the Arkansas Department of Higher Education.