The University of Mary Washington announced today that Acting President Rick Hurley has named Dr. Martin A. Wilder Jr., to the newly established post as chief of staff effective May 10, 2010. In this role, Wilder will work very closely with the president, providing essential advice and counsel on all matters related to the University.
“As we continue to move forward, I wanted a chief of staff who has in-depth knowledge of how the university functions, established regional relationships and the ability to get things done. Marty has all those credentials and is perfect for the position,” Hurley said.
Under the direction of the president, the chief of staff will advance the interests of the university through work with state legislators, and regional business and government leaders. He will report directly to the president as a member of the president’s cabinet, serve as liaison to the Board of Visitors, and provide oversight to the board clerk. Mary Randolph “Ranny” Corbin will continue to serve as clerk of the board while also assuming additional responsibilities reporting to Torre Meringolo as assistant vice president for special initiatives in the Division of Advancement and University Relations. In this capacity she will focus on obtaining additional critical support for community-based programs managed by the university.
Wilder most recently has served as dean of enrollment and student services at the university.
In that role he oversaw all aspects of the student recruitment and admission process for the two-campus university. He also was responsible for a number of student services functions, including registration, academic advising and support services, disability services, financial aid and career services.
“This is a great opportunity to help the entire administration implement the new governance structure, enhance our reputation and prepare for reaffirmation of our accreditation. I’m looking forward to supporting President Hurley and working together on behalf of our faculty, staff and students,” Wilder said.
Wilder has served the university for more than 30 years and has held various administrative positions including vice president for enrollment and communications, vice president for enrollment management, vice president for admissions and financial aid, and associate dean of admissions.
As a long-time area resident, Wilder has been active in the community. He has been a member of the school board for Spotsylvania County, Va., since 1994, having served twice as the board’s chairperson.
Prior to his employment at UMW, Wilder worked as a guidance counselor and director of guidance in the Stafford County Public Schools.
He holds a bachelor’s degree in history, a master’s degree in education and a doctorate in educational leadership and policy studies, all from the University of Virginia in Charlottesville.