Elevation of the Sponsored Programs Foundation Executive Director
Dear Cal Poly Humboldt Community,
I am thrilled to announce a pivotal advancement for our research enterprise. As part of our continued transformation into a Polytechnic university, we are elevating the position of Sponsored Programs Foundation Executive Director to the Associate Vice President for Research (AVP) and Executive Director of the Cal Poly Humboldt Sponsored Programs Foundation (SPF). The recent alignment of SPF within the Advancement division will promote a more cohesive, efficient, and impactful approach to advancing our research priorities.
This change signifies the growing importance of research at Cal Poly Humboldt and underscores our institution’s deep commitment to research, innovation, and academic excellence. The role of AVP will represent our institution as Chief Campus Research Officer, which ensures that Cal Poly Humboldt’s strategic priorities are aligned with the California State University system's vision for research.
Importantly, this elevation does not redirect the responsibilities of the SPF Executive Director position, but instead emphasizes the increased visibility and influence of the research office within our academic community, acknowledging the additional duties the office assumed following the retirement of the Dean of Research in 2016. The AVP title further signals our prioritization of research as we build momentum in becoming a leader in interdisciplinary research and collaboration.
In her new capacity, Kacie Flynn, who has been a steadfast advocate for research as Executive Director of SPF, will now carry this expanded title. Kacie will continue to lead our research initiatives, ensuring that faculty, staff, and student researchers have the resources, support, and advocacy they need to thrive. Her role in overseeing research programs, securing external funding, and fostering collaborations with governmental, industry, and philanthropic organizations will now be strengthened by an elevated role in strategic decision-making and resource allocation at the highest levels of university administration.
Please join me in congratulating Kacie Flynn and the Office of Research & Sponsored Programs Foundation as we embrace this exciting new chapter for Cal Poly Humboldt’s research community. This moment reflects our collective dedication to driving innovation and discovery as we move forward into an era of unprecedented growth and opportunity.
Sincerely,
Mark Johnson
Acting Vice President for University Advancement
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