Behnke adds new duties to his position as Vice President

Adding new responsibilities to his current position as Vice President and Dean of College Enrollment, Michael Behnke has been appointed Vice President for University Relations, effective immediately.

Behnke, who will continue to guide the work of the offices of College Admissions and Financial Aid, will now also work to develop long-term strategies that will best communicate to the public the University’s distinct place in higher education.

Behnke will oversee the News Office and the University Publications Office, which will continue their operations under the leadership of Larry Arbeiter, Director of Communications for the University.

A University officer and administrator since 1997, Behnke will work closely with Randy Holgate, Vice President for Development and Alumni Relations, and Hank Webber, Vice President for Community and Government Affairs, both of whom serve as spokespersons for their respective areas. Behnke also will work with colleagues in the professional schools, divisions and the hospitals, who work daily to convey the special character and achievements of the University.

Behnke came to Chicago from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, where he served as Dean of Admissions. His work in the College has resulted in an increase in applications to the College of nearly 60 percent, and students being admitted into recent classes come with significantly stronger academic credentials.