University of Mary Washington - Index

University of Mary Washington - summer08 - Index

HAMPLE HELM
Eighth President is Seasoned Administrator
| By Lisa Chinn
For nearly seven years, Judy Hample worked in an office building along the
Susquehanna River in Harrisburg, Pa., where she was responsible for guiding
the operations of 14 public universities that enroll more than 100,000 students.
She regularly met with her staff, as well as with legislators,
union heads, university presidents, and members of the
university system’s Board of Governors. It was important
work, which she loved.
But something was missing. Despite the daily challenges
of the position, Hample longed for regular interaction with
what she considers the two most important groups in higher
education: students and faculty.
As the eighth president of the University of Mary
Washington, she has found the missing link.
Hample had eyed UMW for years, she said, admiring its
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rich history, liberal arts curriculum, graduate and professional
studies campus, commitment to community, and strong
academic reputation. When the presidency opened more
than a year ago, she said, “The timing just clicked.”
She had announced in June 2007 that she planned to
leave her position as chancellor of the Pennsylvania State
System of Higher Education (PASSHE) within a year to
pursue something different. She pictured herself taking on a
new challenge, perhaps working as a consultant or becoming
president of a regional association, or maybe returning to
a college campus.